Order, Words, & Voices

Order, Words, & Voices 04.21.24

Order, Words, & Voices

04.21.24, Chosen Because, Acts 17:1-9 & 1 Thess. 1:1-10

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs Shout to the Lord Billy/Team

Thank You Lord

Participatory Reading and Prayer Beth

Songs Revelation Song Billy/Team

Jesus Lover of My Soul

Passage Acts 17:1-9 Martha

Message Chosen…Because Rick

Music Jesus Lover of My Soul Billy/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Closing Music Our God Will Go Before Us Billy/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

Shout To The Lord Song # 1406918

Verse

My Jesus my Saviour

Lord there is none like You

All of my days I want to praise

The wonders of Your mighty love

My comfort my shelter

Tower of refuge and strength

Let every breath all that I am

Never cease to worship You

Chorus

Shout to the Lord

All the earth let us sing

Power and majesty

Praise to the King

Mountains bow down

And the seas will roar

At the sound of Your name

I sing for joy

At the work of Your hands

Forever I’ll love You

Forever I’ll stand

Nothing compares to the promise

I have in You

Thank You Lord CCLI Song # 577439

Verse

For all that You’ve done

I will thank You

For all that You’re going to do

For all that You’ve promised

And all that You are

Is all that has carried me through

Jesus I thank You

Pre-Chorus

And I thank You thank You Lord

(And I thank You thank You Lord)

Thank You thank You Lord

(Thank You thank You)

Chorus

Thank You for loving and setting me free

Thank You for giving Your life just for me

How I thank You Jesus I thank You

Gratefully thank You thank You

Response (Slides) Beth

Leader: I pray grace in your lives on this day.

Response: We share Peace with you on this day.

Leader: I give thanks to God for each of you, always mentioning you in my prayers.

Response: We remember God’s work of faith & love poured out on each of us.

Leader: Your faith is evidenced in your steadfast love.

Response: Our hope is only because of the work of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Leader: We know that you are loved and chosen by God. You have been gifted with God’s welcome and inclusive embrace.

Response: We are chosen by God only because of our transformation gifted to us through the Spirit.

Leader: Your lives are proof of that, your hearts are seen in that, your hope is undeniable in that.

Response: May we be imitators of the Lord in the best and worst of days.

Leader: May you be an example to all who believe, in joyful times and in times of pain and persecution. May the message of your lives be seen and heard.

Response: May we hold to our hope in the times that seem hopeless, my we continue to love in the times we feel unloved.

Leader: May the good news of God continue to flow from your lives into all the world. May the love of the Lord be presented through your lives.

Response: May our lives be the light to our world that has settled for darkness.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

[Slide] Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

[Slide] Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

[Slide] Give us this day our daily bread.

[Slide] Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

[Slide] And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

[Slide] For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

Revelation Song CCLI Song # 4447960

Verse 1

Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain

Holy holy is He

Sing a new song to Him Who sits on

Heaven’s mercy seat

Chorus

Holy holy holy

Is the Lord God Almighty

Who was and is and is to come

With all creation I sing

Praise to the King of kings

You are my ev’rything

And I will adore You

Verse 2

Clothed in rainbows of living color

Flashes of lightning rolls of thunder

Blessing and honor strength and glory

And power be to You the only wise King

Verse 3

Filled with wonder awestruck wonder

At the mention of Your name

Jesus Your name is power breath and living water

Such a marv’lous mystery yeah

Jesus Lover Of My Soul 1198817

Verse

Jesus lover of my soul

Jesus I will never let You go

You’ve taken me from the miry clay

You’ve set my feet upon the rock

And now I know

Chorus

I love You I need You

Though my world may fall

I’ll never let You go

My Savior my closest Friend

I will worship You until the very end

Passage (Slides) Martha

After Paul and Silas had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue.

Paul, as was his custom, went in and, on three Sabbath days, actively discussed the scriptures with them, explaining and proving that it was necessary for the Messiah to suffer and to rise from the dead.

“This is the Messiah Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you.” Paul said.

Some of those present were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a great many of the devout Greeks and leading women of the community.

But the Jewish institutional leaders became upset at what Paul was saying, and with the help of some ruffians out in the marketplaces they formed a mob and set the city in an uproar.

While the mob were searching for Paul and Silas to bring them out to the assembly, they attacked the house of a recent Christian convert named Jason, who was hosting Paul and Silas at his house.

When Paul and Silas could not be found, the mob dragged Jason and some other believers, men and women, before the city authorities.

Their accusation was, “These people who have been turning the world upside down and are now doing it here in our community. It is Jason who has brought them here and is hosting them in his house. They are rebelling against the emperor saying that there is another king named Jesus.”

The people and the city officials were disturbed when they heard this, and after they had taken bail from Jason and the others, they let them go.

Acts 17:1-9

Message Rick

[Do not screen share until first slide is noted]

Introduction

The contradiction of Humanity
The description the Christian Life

[Begin Screen Share until noted to stop]

[Slide] A city on a wicked path

Thessalonica was a gentile city, important trade city, When the region was conquered by the Romans, Thessalonica was permitted to have self rule but the arrangement was always fragile – rulers were probably easily alarmed at anything that would get negative attention from Rome (much like Jewish leaders in Israel).
About 250 years after Saul’s epistle there was a slaughter of 7,000 men, women, and children (reason is uncertain)
Difficult reception for Paul and Silas as well as believers and new believers in the city and the are.
On the pathway to Sodom and the City of Noah

[Slide] A people on a different path than their surroundings

Many men and even many women
Thessalonica church and believers seem to be a different than the image of the city given in Acts and historical findings.
Election/Chosen as opposed to Choice/Choosing (reformed, predestination, etc)
‘We know God has chosen you, because…’
Our chosenness as well as our willingness, past, present, and future, are all tied intrinsically together. Chosen/elected and Personal Choice(s). Noah, Abraham, Man at temple gate healed by Peter, etc.

Chosen…Because (a people chosen by God and, at the same time, a God chosen by the people)

[Slide] We always give thanks to God for all of you and mention you in our prayers, constantly remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

[Slide] For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by God, that he has chosen you, because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction; just as you know what kind of persons we proved to be among you for your sake.

[Slide] And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for in spite of persecution you received the word with joy from the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia but in every place your faith in God has become known. (I Thess 1:2-8)

[End Screen Share]

3 legged Stool – The Essential Elements of the Christian Life

Witness Nee – remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope
Faith, Labor of Love, and Steadfastness of Hope
Faith – past/proven, Heroes of faith, moments of our own faith – Abraham, Noah, and Scribe
Love – Present, our propellent and motivation, greatest commandment
Hope – Future, A reason, a purpose, to look ahead. This is why Paul speaks often to Thessalonians about the return of Jesus, they believed and hoped toward to such an extent that Paul was often concerned that they may become weary in their hope and stumble, their 3 legged stool of faith will fall over.

Music (Slide) Billy/Team

Jesus Lover Of My Soul 1198817

Verse

Jesus lover of my soul

Jesus I will never let You go

You’ve taken me from the miry clay

You’ve set my feet upon the rock

And now I know

Chorus

I love You I need You

Though my world may fall

I’ll never let You go

My Savior my closest Friend

I will worship You until the very end

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 04.28.24, Cultivating Common, Acts 18:1-4 & 1 Cor. 1:10-18
Coming – Pizza and games night, This Thursday, April 25 at 6:00pm

Closing Benediction (Slides)

As we leave this place may we allow our hearts and minds to be filled with God’s joy and peace. May God’s imprint challenge us in our every thought, word, and deed. May our lives match up with our chosen label of Christian.

May we live with a sensitivity to the concerns of those around us. May we join them in trusting God on their journey through joy and grief. May we lift them up in our prayers and thoughts. May we be avenues of God’s love being poured out over them.

May God’s Spirit be our constant companion in all that we do and everywhere we go.

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Closing Music Billy/Team

Our God Will Go Before Us Song # 7218329

Verse 1

Our God will go before us

And guide us by His presence

What confidence this promise is

We will never walk alone

Verse 2

Through unknown paths through shadows

Our hearts fear not tomorrow

For every step His faithfulness

Is the truth that lights our way

Chorus

Our God will go before us

The Lord of Hosts is with us

O praise the One who leads us on

For His grace will bring us home

Order, Words, & Voices 04.14.24

Order, Words, & Voices

04.14.24, Asking for the Wrong Thing, Acts 3:1-10

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs King of My Heart Lynn/Team

Our God

Participatory Reading and Prayer Beth

Songs Blessed be the Name (old hymn) Lynn/Team

Better is One Day

Passage Acts 3:1-10 Martha

Message Asking for the Wrong Thing Rick

Music It is Well with My Soul Lynn/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Closing Music Our God Will Go Before Us Lynn/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (Slides) Lynn/Team

King Of My Heart CCLI Song # 7046145

Verse 1

Let the King of my heart

Be the mountain where I run

The fountain I drink from

Oh He is my song

Let the King of my heart

Be the shadow where I hide

The ransom for my life

Oh He is my song

Chorus

You are good good oh

Verse 2

Let the King of my heart

Be the wind inside my sails

The anchor in the waves

Oh He is my song

Let the King of my heart

Be the fire inside my veins

The echo of my days

Oh He is my song

Chorus

You are good good oh

Bridge

You’re never gonna let

Never gonna let me down

You’re never gonna let

Never gonna let me down

You’re never gonna let

Never gonna let me down

You’re never gonna let

Never gonna let me down

Chorus

You are good good oh

Ending

When the night is holding on to me

God is holding on

When the night is holding on to me

God is holding on

Our God CCLI Song # 5677416

Verse 1

Water You turned into wine

Opened the eyes of the blind

There’s no one like You

None like You

Chorus

Our God is greater

Our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is healer

Awesome in power our God our God

Verse 2

Into the darkness You shine

Out of the ashes we rise

There’s no one like You

None like You

Chorus

Our God is greater

Our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is healer

Awesome in power our God our God

Bridge

And if our God is for us

Then who could ever stop us

And if our God is with us

Then what could stand against

And if our God is for us

Then who could ever stop us

And if our God is with us

Then what could stand against

(Then) what could stand against

Chorus

Our God is greater

Our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is healer

Awesome in power our God our God

Response (Slides for lead and response) Beth

[Slide] Leader: Every day he sits with his back against the gate, his back to beauty that others take for granted. He attempts to gain the notice of those who do not want to notice him.

Response: He sits begging for the help of others that resent his presence.

[Slide] Leader: He lives dependent on the kindness and generosity of his community. They carry him to his place lowering him to the ground where he spends the day begging.

Response: Those passing by do not look into his heart, they seldom see his soul.

[Slide] Leader: He does not go beyond the beautiful gate where he sits. There is no consideration of his hopes, his life is survival, there is no time to waste on frivolous wants.

Response: He watches as others enter the holy place.

[Slide] Leader: He asks for his basic needs from those who choose to not see him.

Response: He is seen by God, we are all seen by God.

[Slide] Leader: We live in a world of the unseen, a world unwilling to notice, a world that does not recognize the hearts of those whose backs are against the entry.

Response: We often fail to see the beauty, we frequently fail to hope.

[Slide] Leader: God leads us to see, God encourages us to notice, God calls us to love.

Response: May we see beyond the burden, may we step into the holy.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

[Slide] Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

[Slide] Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

[Slide] Give us this day our daily bread.

[Slide] Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

[Slide] And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

[Slide] For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (Slides) Lynn/Team

Blessed Be The Name Song # 3798438

Verse 1

All praise to Him who reigns above

In majesty supreme

Who gave His Son for man to die

That He might man redeem

Chorus

Blessed be the name

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Blessed be the name

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Verse 3

Redeemer Savior Friend of man

Once ruined by the fall

Thou hast devised salvation’s plan

For Thou hast died for all

Chorus

Blessed be the name

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Blessed be the name

Blessed be the name of the Lord

Better Is One Day Song # 1097451

Verse 1

How lovely is Your dwelling place

O Lord almighty

For my soul longs and even faints for You

For here my heart is satisfied

Within Your presence

I sing beneath the shadow of Your wings

Chorus

Better is one day in Your courts

Better is one day in Your house

Better is one day in Your courts

Than thousands elsewhere

(Than thousands elsewhere)

Verse 2

One thing I ask and I would seek

To see Your beauty

To find You in the place

Your glory dwells

(REPEAT)

Chorus

Better is one day in Your courts

Better is one day in Your house

Better is one day in Your courts

Than thousands elsewhere

(Than thousands elsewhere)

Bridge

My heart and flesh cry out

For You the living God

Your Spirit’s water to my soul

I’ve tasted and I’ve seen

Come once again to me

I will draw near to You

I will draw near to You to You

Bridge

Better is one day better is one day

Better is one day than thousands elsewhere

Better is one day better is one day

Better is one day than thousands elsewhere

Chorus

Better is one day in Your courts

Better is one day in Your house

Better is one day in Your courts

Than thousands elsewhere

(Than thousands elsewhere)

Passage (Slides) Martha

One day, at 3:00 o’clock in the afternoon, which was the hour of prayer, Peter and John were going up to the temple.

As they arrived, a man who had been unable to walk since birth, was being carried in by a group of people who faithfully, everyday, laid him at the Beautiful Gate of the temple.

And, everyday, the man would sit at the Beautiful Gate and ask for food or money from those entering or passing by the Temple.

When the man saw Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked them for money or food.

Peter and John looked intently at the man who was sitting on his mat. Peter said to the man, “Look at us.” The man looked at the two while hoping to receive some food or money from them.

Peter said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk.”

Peter then took the man by the right hand and raised him up. Immediately the man’s feet and ankles were made strong.

Realizing he no longer needed any assistance to stand, the man jumped up and began to walk, and enthusiastically entered the temple with Peter and John.

Everyone around could not help but notice the man as he entered the temple talking, leaping, and loudly praising God.

Those witnessing this moment also recognized the man as the one who had sat at the Beautiful Gate asking for food and money every day for as long as they could remember.

Acts 3:1-10

Message Rick

[Do not screen share until first slide is noted]

Introduction:

Thunder Jumbo Screen. Easy to look at wrong version, to ask for wrong thing.
Healing Theme (so many ‘why questions – why were others not healed, why were the others in need of healing at the gate not healed, as Jesus would have walked by this gate, and this man, why did Jesus personally not heal the man.
‘What do you want me to pray?’

Healing & Absence of Healing

Cessation v Continuous
Intervarsity Nurses Study about small number of Healings/categories of healing
Expectations are often not met in the ‘how’ of healings so they are ignored, and sometimes we don’t like the how of the healing. Healing as in modern science, research/doctors, and tech healing has become common so often unnoticed
NT Wright theory of the Purpose of Healing in Scripture is that it is an inclusive act for those rejected by religious institution and therefore by society. Wright places a huge emphasis on Jesus as the redeemer of Israel, the one who is bringing the restored Israel from the exile, and who is redefining what that redemption looks like. and is reconstituting what it means to be an Israelite (i.e. the inclusion of the Gentiles). With that in mind Wright says:

“For a first-century Jew, most if not all the works of healing, which form the bulk of Jesus’ mighty works, could be seen as the restoration to membership in Israel of those who, through sickness or whatever, had been excluded as ritually unclean. The healings thus function in exact parallel with the welcome of sinners, and this, we may be quite sure, was what Jesus himself intended. He never performed mighty works simply to impress. He saw them as part of the inauguration of the sovereign and healing rule of Israel’s covenant God.”

Wright explains why Jesus performed miracles for Gentiles and for a Samaritan, saying that they

“bear witness to the inclusion within the people of YHWH of those who had formerly been outside (Gentiles and Samaritans). The effect of these cures, therefore, was not merely to bring physical healing, but to reconstitute those healed as members of the people of Israel’s god. In other words, these healings, would be seen as part of Jesus’ total ministry, specifically the open welcome which went with the inauguration of the kingdom – and, consequently, part of his subversive work, which was likely to get Jesus in trouble.”

Basics of man in story

Back against beautiful gate (mentioned this time, beautiful gate and hallway in)
‘People’ carried him in everyday probably since childhood to beg for alms – food and money.
Peter says stand and the man stands without question/argument receiving healing as he stands. (would he have been healed if he never stood, or would he have ever recognized standing if he hand not stood). Other healings – was it because the friends continued to carry, or the woman pushed through the crowd, or…)
Went into temple probably first time since his parents carried him in for rites
Telling his story, praising God, Leaping w/healed legs

(Buddhist zen philosophy) Find Patience, Find Healing, Find Hope, Find something to do

(T.S. Eliot) “I said to my soul, be still and wait without hope, for hope would be hope for the wrong thing; wait without love, for love would be love of the wrong thing; there is yet faith, but the faith and the love are all in the waiting. Wait without thought, for you are not ready for thought: So the darkness shall be the light, and the stillness the dancing.”

Asking for the wrong thing – Questioning my original premise that the man was asking for the wrong thing. Is it possible that the man was correct in his waiting with the attitude of survival? Possibly he had taken stock of what he had, a community that would carry him to the gate and then back home, a mat on which to sit, strangers who, for whatever reason (guilt, disgust, or compassion), provided him with the means to live whether it was food or money, a voice to call out, …he was open to the voice that said ‘take my hand and stand up.’

Intervarsity nurses found No mention of faith on the part of man, would have been Jew since he does go into temple (not unclean, no waiting period) – cannot deny the fact that the man persisted everyday. Did he have an irrational hope? Did he have an unmentioned faith? Did his community have both of these and continued against his arguments? Did he want healing, did he want hope, did he want purpose, Did he want faith? Was he like the scribe who Jesus described as being ‘not far’ from God.

Focus on the response of the man. Even though Peter, in healing the man, was relatively calm and subtle, the man could not now behave in that stoic manner, his reaction to his own experience mixed with what was probably his own personality, could not be dampened. This is probably what so few were able to follow through when Jesus asked them to not proclaim their healing.

Healing, of whatever nature, allows us to see what we did not/could not see before, and therefore, why that which we asked for was just a smidgen of what God wanted to give. When our back is against the beautiful gate, when we have never experienced the joy of entering the gate and walking through the temple – we can not aspire to that.

If we have never been able to metaphorically stand, if we have been disappointed every time we have tried, if past failed promises of healing have destroyed our dreams and vision, we settle into our own created limits, adopting the unspoken boundaries set by those around us. We dare not think outside of our own experience and those boundaries or those that we set on ourselves. We fail to look for the hand extended to us because we have settled into reclining on the mat. We ask for alms but do not expect the answer to be that we must stand. We desire to walk but are not ready the answer to be the pain of physical therapy. We hope for peace for our loved one but cannot fathom the answer will be in their passing. We sit with our back to the gate and fail to recognize that the gate has, all along, been open and welcoming even to us.

As long as we refuse to see healing except for our own defined avenue and means of healing we cannot see any reason to recognize and take the Spirit’s hand.

(Poem by Nicky Gant)

All Jesus had to do was walk through crowds, and people were healed, forever illumined by the Light of His presence. Miracles dance out of the shadows, when they sense the greatness of God nearby. Freedom spreads like wildfire, when sparked by His love.

All Jesus has to do is be Himself, and the whole beautiful world is created

again and again in our lives. He is responsible for everything good.

What if we allowed His Spirit to roam unfettered like a wild horse within us? What if we allowed His Light to shine through clear-glassed hearts into the world? What if we expressed the full potency of His love like medicine for wounded souls?

If presence is so powerful, what’s stopping us from embodying His? What’s clogging the grace that wants to flow through us and heal the world?

What is our blindness to God’s works of grace in healings enacted through God’s perfect plan. Is it our judgement and condemnation of others that closes our eyes to the avenues of grace? Is it our pain, resentment, bitterness, or hatred that causes us to see only darkness when we search for hope? Is it the fact that we have can no longer practice patience, that we cannot wait in hopelessness, that we refuse to take God’s hand, is it that we refuse to do something outside of our selves?

Is the key of this story that the man stood, or was it that he hopelessly continued to ‘survive’ sitting at the gate, or the faithful network of ‘people’ who carried him to the gate, or was it merely God’s power used through the willing apostle Peter? Is the key to wait until the step ahead is offered even though it does not seem to be anything like the healing we were hoping for, whatever the healing need way?

[Message closing Prayer by Thomas Merton]

My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end, nor do I really know myself. The fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road, though I may know nothing about it. Therefore will I trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone. Amen

Music (Slide) Lynn/Team

It Is Well With My Soul Song # 25376

Verse 1

When peace like a river

Attendeth my way

When sorrows like sea billows roll

Whatever my lot

Thou hast taught me to say

It is well

It is well with my soul

Chorus

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

Verse 3

My sin O the bliss

Of this glorious tho’t

My sin not in part but the whole

Is nailed to the cross

And I bear it no more

Praise the Lord

Praise the Lord O my soul

Chorus

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

Verse 4

And Lord haste the day

When the faith shall be sight

The clouds be rolled back as a scroll

The trump shall resound

And the Lord shall descend

Even so it is well

With my soul

Chorus

It is well with my soul

It is well

It is well with my soul

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 04.21.24, Chosen…Because, Acts 17:1-9 & 1 Thess. 1:1-10
Coming – Pizza and games night, Thursday, April 25 at 6:00pm

Closing Benediction (Slides)

[Slide] We walk the path of the one who has experienced suffering and despair, who has cried out from pain and rejection, who is present in this moment, who shares the burdens that weigh us down.

[Slide] We go into this new week sustained by our faith in the risen Christ. May those things that trouble us be lifted up by God’s mercy. May our moments of joy never fail to bless others as it blesses us. May grace leap from our life for all to see.

[Slide] We live in the presence of the God in whom we trust. We praise as we witness and experience the love of God through all that this week has to offer.

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Closing Music Lynn/Team

Our God Will Go Before Us Song # 7218329

Verse 1

Our God will go before us

And guide us by His presence

What confidence this promise is

We will never walk alone

Verse 2

Through unknown paths through shadows

Our hearts fear not tomorrow

For every step His faithfulness

Is the truth that lights our way

Chorus

Our God will go before us

The Lord of Hosts is with us

O praise the One who leads us on

For His grace will bring us home

Order, Words, & Voices 04.07.23

Order, Words, & Voices

04.07.24, 40 Days, Acts 1:1-17

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs Hallelujah, He Reigns in Majesty Billy/Team

The Goodness of God

Participatory Reading and Prayer Beth

Songs Our God Will Go Before Us Billy/Team

God Will Make A Way

Passage Acts 1:1-17 Martha

Message 40 Days Rick

Music The Goodness of God Billy/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Closing Music Our God Will Go Before Us Billy/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

Hallelujah He Reigns Song #290455

Chorus

Hallelujah

He reigns in majesty

Hallelujah

He reigns in glory

Hallelujah

He reigns in righteousness

Oh hallelujah hallelujah

Hallelujah hallelujah hallelujah

Hallelujah

He reigns in righteousness

Oh hallelujah

Goodness Of God Song # 7117726

Verse 1

I love You Lord

Oh Your mercy never fails me

All my days

I’ve been held in Your hands

From the moment that I wake up

Until I lay my head

I will sing of the goodness of God

Chorus

All my life You have been faithful

All my life You have been so so good

With every breath that I am able

I will sing of the goodness of God

Verse 2

I love Your voice

You have led me through the fire

In darkest night

You are close like no other

I’ve known You as a father

I’ve known You as a friend

I have lived in the goodness of God

Chorus

All my life You have been faithful

All my life You have been so so good

With every breath that I am able

I will sing of the goodness of God

Response (Slides) Beth

Leader: May the Lord teach us to do God’s will, for the Lord is our God.

Response: God has given us the Spirit to lead us on a level path.

Leader: God gave his servant, the one in whom God delights.

Response: God poured his spirit upon him to bring justice to the nations.

Leader: God pours water out on a thirsty land, he makes streams on the dry ground.

Response: He pours out the Spirit upon the descendants and blessings to the offspring.

Leader: The spirit of the Lord God is upon us because the Lord has anointed us

Response: The Lord has sent us to live the good news for the oppressed, and to bind up the brokenhearted.

Leader: God gives us a new heart and a new spirit.

Response: God removes our heart of stone and gives us a heart of flesh.

Leader: God puts His spirit within us and leads us to follow His statutes and gives us a mind that is careful to observe His ordinances.

Response: We shall live in the land, we shall be His people, and the Lord will be our God.

Leader: God will pour out His Spirit, and we shall be God’s people

Response: And, God will be our God.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

Our God Will Go Before Us 7218329

Verse 1

Our God will go before us

And guide us by His presence

What confidence this promise is

We will never walk alone

Verse 2

Through unknown paths through shadows

Our hearts fear not tomorrow

For every step His faithfulness

Is the truth that lights our way

Chorus

Our God will go before us

The Lord of Hosts is with us

O praise the One who leads us on

For His grace will bring us home

(For His grace will bring us home)

Verse 3

Though evil forms against us

All heaven will defend us

The gates of hell shall not prevail

For the battle is the Lord’s

Verse 4

Now send us with Your presence

And lead us on to heaven

Where songs of sorrow strain no more

And our every breath is praise

O let our every breath be praise

Chorus

Our God will go before us

The Lord of Hosts is with us

O praise the One who leads us on

For His grace will bring us home

(For His grace will bring us home)

God Will Make A Way Song # 458620

Chorus

God will make a way

Where there seems to be no way

He works in ways we cannot see

He will make a way for me

He will be my guide

Hold me closely to His side

With love and strength

For each new day

He will make a way

Verse

By a roadway in the wilderness

He’ll lead me

And rivers in the desert will I see

Heaven and earth will fade

But His Word will still remain

He will do something new today

Passage (Slides) Martha

After Jesus’ suffering and resurrection he presented himself alive to his followers for forty days as he taught about the kingdom of God.

While staying with the followers, Jesus instructed them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait there for the promise of the Father.

Jesus said, “John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

Jesus’ followers asked him, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?”

Jesus replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that are set by the Father. However, you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

As Jesus said this, his followers watched as he was lifted up, and was taken from their sight. Suddenly, two men in white robes were standing by them.

The men said, “Why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

When the followers returned to Jerusalem they had entered the city and went to the room upstairs where they would wait as Jesus had instructed.

There, they devoted themselves to prayer along with Mary the mother of Jesus and his brothers.

Acts 1:1-14

Message Rick

Introduction – JW – Know and Do faith to Be.

Forty Days

Appeared to disciples 3 times.
Other sheep (John 10:11-18)
Confronts culture in religiousity by appearing first to women and ordaining them first to go tell the men.
Men disciples are stuck on the ‘when’ and ‘how’ of Jesus’ return and their perspective of the Kingdom of Jesus

Acts 1 is Transition period from Jesus’ voice to the the Apostles

(Dr. O. Wesley Allen, Jr.) While the apostles are still caught up in the return of Jesus and an earthly kingdom led by Jesus, Jesus is introducing them to the true thread of this age, the true power, the Spirit. Notice that this conclusion of the dialogue, to BE my witnesses, is not stated in the imperative as instructive material — for example, you must do/be my witnesses. Instead, it is a declarative sentence. Jesus declares a fact in the future tense. As you are going about life you will naturally BE.

Jesus is working in this final days in the flesh on refocusing the soon to be apostles from being ‘When’ and ‘How’ focused leaders to the Now. From “Do” to “Be’. (O. Wesley Allen, Jr., Lois Craddock Perkins Professor of Homiletics, Perkins School of Theology, Dallas, Texas)

Jesus final words, of “Go” and “Be.” Better interpreted as

‘You Will Be….everywhere you Go.”

Wait – no timeline, no details, just, ‘Wait’

Wait time would begin to shape them into an understanding of the power of man vs the power of God – Into the power of the Spirit rather than human power (a usage that corrupts and delegitimized institutions of faith as well as people of faith). (Politics). Jesus is moving disciples to “BE” leaders, compassion, mercy, love.

Men said ‘why are you looking toward heaven…”

Disciples still stood there looking through their own failed perspective of faith. Not ‘when does Jesus come back’ to, instead asking, ‘How do we live like Jesus on the path ahead?’

Rapid decline of people of faith who claim attachment to communities of faith – church. In 2016, 29% of those who have left the church, cited negative teachings about people who identify as both LGBTQ and Christian as a reason they quit their religious affiliation. In 2023, 47% said that was a reason they quit. Nearly half of LGBTQ unaffiliated respondents (48%) said they no longer identify with their childhood faith because it was bad for their mental health.

Point – True Focus on path Spirit leads us on. (2 men)

Not on Jesus Return as we cannot know the details of that return
Not on Jesus Return as we cannot force Jesus’ Return
Race – Illustration of Grace and Hannah and Selfie.
Paul speaking to Hebrews about race. Only straight ahead –

Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls! (Hebrews 12:1-3, MSG)

Music (Slide) Billy/Team

Goodness Of God Song # 7117726

Verse 1

I love You Lord

Oh Your mercy never fails me

All my days

I’ve been held in Your hands

From the moment that I wake up

Until I lay my head

I will sing of the goodness of God

Chorus

All my life You have been faithful

All my life You have been so so good

With every breath that I am able

I will sing of the goodness of God

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 04.14.24, ‘Asking for the Wrong Thing’, Acts 3:1-10
Coming – Pizza and games night, Thursday, April 2

Closing Benediction (Slides each line) ?

CCLI Song # 7218329

Our God will go before us and guide us by His presence

What confidence this promise is for we will never walk alone

Through unknown paths through shadows our hearts fear not tomorrow

For every step His faithfulness is the truth that lights our way

May God now send us with His presence

For His grace will bring us home

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Closing Music Billy/Team

Our God Will Go Before Us # 7218329

Verse 1

Our God will go before us

And guide us by His presence

What confidence this promise is

We will never walk alone

Verse 2

Through unknown paths through shadows

Our hearts fear not tomorrow

For every step His faithfulness

Is the truth that lights our way

Chorus

Our God will go before us

The Lord of Hosts is with us

O praise the One who leads us on

For His grace will bring us home

(For His grace will bring us home)

Verse 3

Though evil forms against us

All heaven will defend us

The gates of hell shall not prevail

For the battle is the Lord’s

Verse 4

Now send us with Your presence

And lead us on to heaven

Where songs of sorrow strain no more

And our every breath is praise

O let our every breath be praise

Chorus

Our God will go before us

The Lord of Hosts is with us

O praise the One who leads us on

For His grace will bring us home

(For His grace will bring us home)

Order, Words, & Voices 03.31.24

Order, Words, & Voices

03.31.24, The Cross, Mark 16

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Welcome/Prayer/Introduction (No Slides) Rick

Video Easter Song Video

Participatory Reading and Lord’s Prayer Cricklins

Reading Isaiah/Duffy

Passage Mark 16:1-8 Mitch

Message Hope Rick

Benediction Linda

Community/Closing Peace Rick

Music This is the Day (Verse 1 & Chorus) Video

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Response(Slides) Cricklins (come to front as verses close video)

Leader: God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, to a virgin named Mary.

Response: The angel said to Mary, “Do not be afraid for you will bear a son and name him Jesus.”

Leader: As the Prophet said “The Lord will give us a sign, a young woman will be with child, she will bear a son, Immanuel.”

Response: God is with us.

Leader: A child was born for us, a son was given for us.

Response: The wonderful counselor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, and the Prince of peace.

Leader: Engaged to Joseph, but while Mary was still a virgin, she became pregnant from the Holy Spirit. An angel said to Joseph, “Don’t be afraid.”

Response: “His name will be ‘Jesus’, he will save us from our sins.”

Leader: He was wounded for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities, in order to heal our bruises and make us whole.

Response: All we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way, and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Leader: He was oppressed and afflicted; like a lamb led to the slaughter. 

Response: Like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so Jesus did not open his mouth.

Leader: Jesus asked God, ‘Why have you forsaken me?’

Response: Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Reading (no slides) Duffy/Isaiah (come to front as final line of prayer is said)

Isaiah: Six, maybe seven, hours is all it took for Jesus to die. For his followers who had showed up, it was an eternity. For the religious leaders eager to rid themselves of their Jesus problem the wait was excruciating. But, for those in the large crowd sitting on the ground around the cross watching Jesus die, it was a perfectly entertaining Friday afternoon.

Duffy: It was a strange site, crowds watching death. The cross, designed by vicious humans wanting revenge. Revenge on what they did not know, nor did they attempt to process or understand why this man who they had cheered five days earlier was now the victim of their hatred and vitriol.

Isaiah: And there, in the midst of the crowd, was the women that were disciples of Jesus. The male disciples were either watching from a safe distance or they had chosen to be as far away as possible – out of sight out of mind.

Duffy: But, there was an end to the spectacle. Jesus did die. He screamed out that it was all over. And then Jesus died. The religious leaders stuck around to make sure the body was taken down from the cross, and even to assure themselves that the cross was removed. No one needed to see this tool of death the next day, the holy day, the Sabbath. No one wanted to be reminded of this unfortunate incident, everyone just needed to forget. Now, with this ‘Jesus problem’ taken care of, everyone could get back to normal.

Isaiah: The politicians ordered that the body be taken down and the cross be removed. The spectators rounded up their families, the children finished their play, picnic baskets were packed up, and everyone went home before sundown. That was the religious thing to do.

Duffy: Everyone went home. Everyone closed their doors and windows because there was a stench in the air. Darkness had fallen, the ground itself had seemed to shake, and even those who seemed to be celebrating had an odd look of dread on their face.

Passage (Slides) Mitch (come to front at close of previous reading)

When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go and anoint Jesus’ body.

As soon as the religious law allowed, early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, the women went to the tomb.

On the way to the tomb they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” This was a huge concern as the stone was large and heavy.

However, when they arrived and looked up, they saw that the stone had already been rolled back.

Without any obstacle to stop them they immediately approached the tomb where, instead of the body of Jesus, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and the women were alarmed.

But the man said to them, “Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Look, there is the place where they laid him.”

“Now,” the man continued, “go, tell his disciples, and Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of all of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you.”

So the women went out and fled from the tomb, for terror and amazement had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Mark 16:1-8

Message Rick (No Slides)

[No Slide until next paragraph]

Women on way to do the usual act of taking care of the body of a friend who has passed, doing what their gut told them to do, what their ancestors had taught them to do, ‘honor the body. Concern about gaining access to the body with the expected stone blocking their way. Concern about more powerful scoffers as there had been when Mary attempted to anoint honor earlier before the arrest. This was just their next step. They waited as long as they had to and then, probably without much discussion except to share their concerns about their mission, still, they ran to the tomb. They go expecting barriers but they go anyway.

When they arrive there is no boulder but there is something unexpected…

[Slide] Something unexpected, The “Do not be alarmed;’ (birth caution as well)

[Slide] Clarification of purpose, “you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, right? The one who was crucified and buried in this tomb, correct?”

[Slide] Declaration of New Day Reality, “Well, He is no longer dead, He has been raised; he is not here.”

[Slide] Invitation to Confirm/Understand, “Go ahead, look inside, there is the place where they laid him.” [Hope – Radio station emotion]

[Slide – leave this slide up until next slide] Instruction to Get back on the path, “Now, go, tell his disciples, and Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of all of you to Galilee; there you will see him, just as he told you.”

More recent manuscripts regarding vs 9 to end. Focus on 1-8;
Allows us to notice ‘Tell Peter’
We continue step by step through good and bad, victory and failures, gain and loss, health and sickness.
Women run scared to talk but then cannot help but talk.
What happens when just a seed of hope is present.
Hope restores us to the path in front of us.

Poet Rich Mullins captured this back and forth of our lives with his word:

There is so much work left to do but so much I’d already done

Like Abraham, I am a stranger in a strange land

On this road to righteousness sometimes the climb can be so steep

I often falter in my steps but I am never beyond God’s reach

O God, You are my God and I will ever praise You

I will seek You in the morning and I will learn to walk in Your ways

And step-by-step You’ll lead me and I will follow You all of my days

[Slide] Apostle Paul speaking to Jesus’ followers in Corinth, a group of people much like us, he reminds them that, “But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.”

Followers but often entitled, living in grace but seldom reflecting Jesus mercy and compassion, loved but self centered in the giving of love.

He informs them that they are dying, the natural death of being human. However, he also tells them that they carry the death of Jesus because that permits them to also carry the resurrection of Jesus, the life.

While our bodies are prone to die, life is still there, eternal life.

We can live the eternal life of Jesus even as our bodies are dying an earthly death.

[Slide] Paul echoes the prophet Isaish, “We are afflicted in every way but not crushed, perplexed but not driven to despair, persecuted but not forsaken, struck down but not destroyed, always carrying around in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies.” (II Cor. 4;8-10)

As the women went to sleep there was death, as they awake, once again there was life. Same problems, same pain, the same expectation of death, but now it is a new day, the tomb is still empty, the hope is still present. As the we go to sleep there is death, as we awake, once again there is life. Same problems, same pain, but now it is a new day, the tomb is still empty, the hope is still present.

[Stop screen share]

The resurrection is our hope. The resurrection is our affirmation of life. The hope that is Resurrection is our life.

Understanding death allows us to understand life

Understanding hopelessness allows us to see and understand hope

Hope returns us to God’s path for us

Closing Benediction (Slides each line) Linda

We leave here into a world that is dying aware that the tomb is empty.

We leave here ready for the seed of hope to restore us to God’s path.

We leave here with joy because even death does not reign over us or rule our lives.

We leave here because that is where our path leads.

We leave here because that is where hope, mercy, compassion, and love is most needed.

We leave here because it it our next continued step

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 04.07.24, 40 Days, Acts 1:1-17
Coming – Pizza and games night, Lead-Duffy

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Closing MusicVideo

Order, Words, & Voices 03.24.24

Order, Words, & Voices

03.24.24, The Cross, Mark 14-15

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs (Hosanna) Praise is Rising Lynn/Team

Lamb of God

Participatory Reading and Prayer Cricklins

Songs Tis Midnight and on Olive’s Brow Lynn/Team

How Deep the Father’s Love for Us

Passage Mark 15:15-19, 25-26, 33-34 Mitch

Lords Supper Introduction w/music Rick/Lynn/Team

Distribution/Partaking of elements Martha/Lynn/T

Message The Cross Rick

Music Is He Worthy Lynn/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Music This is the Day (Verse 1 & Chorus) Lynn/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

Hosanna (Praise Is Rising)

Verse 1

Praise is rising

Eyes are turning to You

We turn to You

Hope is stirring

Hearts are yearning for You

We long for You

Pre-Chorus

‘Cause when we see You

We find strength to face the day

In Your presence

All our fears are washed away

(Washed away)

Chorus

Hosanna hosanna

You are the God who saves us

Worthy of all our praises

Hosanna hosanna

Come have Your way among us

We welcome You here Lord Jesus

Verse 2

Hear the sound of

Hearts returning to You

We turn to You

In Your Kingdom

Broken lives are made new

You make us new

Pre-Chorus

‘Cause when we see You

We find strength to face the day

In Your presence

All our fears are washed away

(Washed away)

Chorus

Hosanna hosanna

You are the God who saves us

Worthy of all our praises

Hosanna hosanna

Come have Your way among us

We welcome You here Lord Jesus

Ending

Hosanna hosanna

Lamb Of God

Verse 1

Your only Son no sin to hide

But You have sent Him from Your side

To walk upon this guilty sod

And to become the Lamb of God

Verse 2

Your gift of love they crucified

They laughed and scorned Him as He died

The humble King they named a fraud

And sacrificed the Lamb of God

Chorus

Oh Lamb of God sweet Lamb of God

I love the holy Lamb of God

Oh wash me in His precious blood

My Jesus Christ the Lamb of God

Verse 3

I was so lost I should have died

But You have brought me to Your side

To be led by Your staff and rod

And to be called a lamb of God

Chorus

Oh Lamb of God sweet Lamb of God

I love the holy Lamb of God

Oh wash me in His precious blood

My Jesus Christ the Lamb of God

Participatory Response (Slides) Cricklins

Leader: Long before Bethlehem, before the birth, and decades before the cross, God chose to sacrifice His only Son for the sake of humanity, for the sake of each of us.

Response: God so Loved, and Loves, the world that he gave His Son.

Leader: Long before adulthood, the Son made the choice to know God, to seek the truth, and to fully understand humanity and humanities’ understanding of God.

Response: For the Son proclaimed what he had seen in God’s presence.

Leader: As Jesus sat at the table with his disciples, including those who would betray, deny, and abandon him, he washed their feet and shared the bread and cup.

Response: The love of God, and God’s created, permeated Jesus’ life and His unconditional embrace of all persons.

Leader: As an adult Jesus was unwaveringly committed to God’s calling and refused to step away from God’s truth, compassion, mercy, or God’s love.

Response: Jesus refused to violate the truth in order to gain favor with the powerful, he stood silent in the presence of his accusers.

Leader: Jesus hung on the cross in humility and in pain.

Response: Jesus said to God, ‘Forgive them.’

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

‘Tis Midnight

Verse 1

‘Tis midnight and on Olive’s brow

The star is dimmed that lately shone

‘Tis midnight in the garden now

The suffering Saviour prays alone

Verse 2

‘Tis midnight and from all removed

The Saviour wrestles lone with fears

E’en the disciple whom He loved

Heeds not his Master’s grief and tears

Verse 3

‘Tis midnight and for others’ guilt

The Man of Sorrows weeps in blood

Yet He that hath in anguish knelt

Is not forsaken by His God

How Deep The Father’s Love For Us

Verse 1

How deep the Father’s love for us

How vast beyond all measure

That He should give His only Son

To make a wretch His treasure

How great the pain of searing loss

The Father turns His face away

As wounds which mar the Chosen One

Bring many sons to glory

Verse 2

Behold the Man upon a cross

My sin upon His shoulders

Ashamed I hear my mocking voice

Call out among the scoffers

It was my sin that held Him there

Until it was accomplished

His dying breath has brought me life

I know that it is finished

Verse 3

I will not boast in anything

No gifts no pow’r no wisdom

But I will boast in Jesus Christ

His death and resurrection

Why should I gain from His reward

I cannot give an answer

But this I know with all my heart

His wounds have paid my ransom

Passage (Slides) Mitch

Wanting to satisfy the hateful crowd, the Governor Pilate released Barabbas to them instead of Jesus. Pilate had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.

The soldiers led Jesus away into the palace and called together the whole company of soldiers.

They put a purple robe on him, then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on him. And they began to harass Jesus yelling out, “Hail, king of the Jews!”

Again and again the soldiers struck Jesus on the head with a staff and spit on him. Falling on their knees, they mockingly paid homage to Jesus. Then they led him out to crucify him.

It was nine in the morning when they crucified Jesus.

The written notice of the charge against Jesus read: the king of the jews.

At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”.

Mark 15:15-19, 25-26, 33-34

Lord’s Supper

Throne Of Grace

Chorus

Come to the throne of grace

Don’t be afraid

I won’t turn you away

Just let me into your heart

And My love will wash your tears away

Verse 1

I know you

I know you completely

And on your darkest journey

I have been with you

All the weight of guilt and shame

You carry on your shoulder

It’s time to hand it over and let it go

Just let it go

Chorus

Come to the throne of grace

Don’t be afraid

I won’t turn you away

Just let me into your heart

And My love will wash your tears away

Verse 2

I can hear the silent tears

Above the noise and laughter

The things you’re running after

Will let you down

So here I stand before you now

With arms of love to hold you

Let my grace enfold you

And come to me

O run to Me

Chorus

Come to the throne of grace

Don’t be afraid

I won’t turn you away

Just let me into your heart

And My love will wash your tears away

Ending

Come just come

Come

Message Rick (No Slides)

Introduction – Cross

Exit 112 and 60

Death symbol when Jesus purpose was to bring life

Cross – Manmade tool of death to give the most affirmation to those in charge

The cross was a brutal attempt to get rid of Jesus and to humiliate Jesus while also striving to discredit his message and mission – and, if the previous two points do not do this job, it carries a goal to scare Jesus’ followers and any persons desiring to Jesus.’

Physical Impact Pain – Christian’s primary focus in lent and easter

Emotional/Mental Impact Pain – humiliation w/audience

Theologian James Cone insists that for us to understand the human motivation in creating the cross that, “Any genuine theology and any genuine preaching of the Christian gospel must be measured against the test of the lynching tree.” and to fully understand our own salvation, we must recognize Jesus’ solidarity with the crucified people as well as “Our own solidarity with the crucified people in our midst.” And, in regard to our Lenten consideration of the Cross and Jesus’ crucifixion on the Cross, we must reflect on what our remembrance of the cross means in light of the still-standing trees that bore lynched bodies in our own homeland.

God’s Use of the Cross was was through the tool of death chosen by man not God – the Cross

To take our sins, the pain of the sin, the pain of the guilt, and the pain of the impact.

New Testament Scholar Ira Diggs says, “The Gospel of Mark weaves various moments of scriptural “fulfillment” into his narrative to convey divine faithfulness—divine faithfulness in continuity with God’s ancient covenant with Israel. We see the depths of this divine faithfulness most clearly in Jesus’ commitment to his mission, which is the restoration of humans and communities to every level of wholeness. Jesus refuses to dial down this ministry to spare his own life, or even to soften the backlash, facing hostility in full confidence that God brings life from death. It is the God of Israel, acting through Jesus on our behalf moving chess pieces in a sordid plot to sacrifice the son.

Zoom out

Final Temple Moment, God not present then God is present in scribe and woman

Week begins with crowd praising Jesus as he enter, and ends with crowd cheering the dying of Jesus. Final Crowd

Both holy moments, both necessity for us to understand that God was present in both – Even when God turned his back

Jesus asked ‘God why did you turn your back on me?’ THen, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.

Message for us

Remember others crucified for belief

Remember to bring Holy with us everywhere, good and bad

Music (Slides) Lynn/Team

Is He Worthy

Verse 1

Do you feel the world is broken

We do

Do you feel the shadows deepen

We do

But do you know that all the dark

Won’t stop the light from getting through

We do

Do you wish that you could see it all made new

We do

Verse 2

Is all creation groaning

It is

Is a new creation coming

It is

Is the glory of the Lord

To be the light within our midst

It is

Is it good that we remind ourselves of this

It is

Chorus 1

Is anyone worthy

Is anyone whole

Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll

The Lion of Judah who conquered the grave

He is David’s Root

And the Lamb who died to ransom the slave

Is He worthy

Of all blessing and honor and glory

Is He worthy of this

He is

Verse 3

Does the Father truly love us

He does

Does the Spirit move among us

He does

And does Jesus our Messiah

Hold forever those He loves

He does

Does our God intend to dwell again with us

He does

Chorus 2

Is anyone worthy

Is anyone whole

Is anyone able to break the seal and open the scroll

The Lion of Judah who conquered the grave

He is David’s Root

And the Lamb who died to ransom the slave

From ev’ry people and tribe every nation and tongue

He has made us a kingdom and priests

To God to reign with the Son

Is He worthy

Of all blessing and honor and glory

Is He worthy

Is He worthy of this

He is

Ending

Is He worthy

He is

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 03.31.24, Hope, Mark 16:1-8
‘In-Between’ Bible Study, BS this Tuesday at noon at the Nielsens’, Mark 15:1-47, final lenten season bible study for 2024

Closing Benediction (Slide for each line) Rick

We leave this place knowing that the Everlasting God, in His endless love for the human race, sent His only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to take on our nature and to suffer death on the cross.

We leave comforted in the knowledge that the Son of God stepped into our flesh facing the same doubts, fears, rejection, disobedience, grief, and fatal choices that we face.

We leave knowing that Jesus navigated our journey without any compromise of truth, without any encounter where compassion and mercy were absent, and without any relationship that was not shaped and molded by love.

We leave with the challenge to strive to live a life of holiness. A life that reflects the continual and consistent light of God’s sacrifice. A life that runs ahead to the empty grave when hopelessness threatens to consume us.

We leave here knowing that we do this one step at a time. Never abandoned by God, never rejected by God, and never forgotten or unnoticed by God.

We leave this place of grace to be a vessel of grace to our world.

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Music [Slides] Billy/Team

This is the Day CCLI Song # 7195146

Verse 1

Whether the sun will shine

Whether the skies will rain

I know that You are good

And this is the day You made

Whether in life or death

Whether in joy or pain

I know this truth remains

That this is the day You made

Chorus (Repeat Chorus)

This is the day that

the Lord has made

We will rejoice as we lift His name

This is the day that

the Lord has made

Come and rejoice we will rejoice

and be glad in it

Order, Words, & Voices 03.17.24

Order, Words, & Voices

03.17.24, Stay Alert, Mark 13

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs My Hope is You Billy/Team

Lord I Lift Your Name on High

Participatory Reading and Prayer Mitch

Songs Revelation Song Billy/Team

More Precious Than Silver

Passage Mark 13 Mitch

Message Stay Alert Rick

Music More Precious Than Silver Billy/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Music This is the Day (Verse 1 & Chorus) Billy/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (slides) Billy/Team

My Hope Is You CCLI Song # 2373672

Verse 1

To You oh Lord I lift my soul

In You oh God I place my trust

And do not let me be put to shame

Don’t let my enemies

Triumph over me

Chorus

My hope is You

Show me Your ways

Guide me in truth

In all my days

My hope is You

Verse 2

I am oh Lord filled with Your love

You are oh God my salvation

Well guard my life and rescue me

My broken spirit shouts

My mended heart cries out

Lord I Lift Your Name On High

CCLI Song # 117947

Verse

Lord I lift Your name on high

Lord I love to sing Your praises

I’m so glad You’re in my life

I’m so glad You came to save us

Chorus

You came from heaven to earth

To show the way

From the earth to the cross

My debt to pay

From the cross to the grave

From the grave to the sky

Lord I lift Your name on high

Participatory Response (Slides) Mitch

Leader: For a moment the grave held the dead body and life itself.

Response: But soon there was life and the tomb held power no longer.

Leader: All had seemed lost, Jesus’ followers went into hiding.

Response: Darkness and fear filled the space where they hid.

Leader: The grave clothes were folded and the stone was removed.

Response: Life had returned, the proof of God’s love was seen, darkness was now light, just as the women proclaimed.

Leader: Like the opening of spring, the colors return, and hope filled the emptiness.

Response: Joy to the world, light pierced the darkness, life prevailed.

Leader: Peace and hope replaced fear, confusion, and chaos.

Response: Peace and hope now illuminated God’s love and mercy.

Leader: Now we are called to the well where our thirst is quenched.

Response: Now we sit at the table where our hunger is fed.

Leader: Jesus instructs us to keep an eye open for God’s presence.

Response: Jesus encourages us to reflect God’s grace.

Leader: The stone has been rolled away.

Response: Hope now surrounds us.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

Revelation Song CCLI Song # 4447960

Verse 1

Worthy is the Lamb Who was slain

Holy holy is He

Sing a new song to Him Who sits on

Heaven’s mercy seat

Chorus

Holy holy holy

Is the Lord God Almighty

Who was and is and is to come

With all creation I sing

Praise to the King of kings

You are my ev’rything

And I will adore You

Verse 2

Clothed in rainbows of living color

Flashes of lightning rolls of thunder

Blessing and honor

strength and glory

And power be to You

the only wise King

Verse 3

Filled with wonder awestruck wonder

At the mention of Your name

Jesus Your name is power

breath and living water

Such a marv’lous mystery yeah

More Precious Than Silver

CCLI Song # 11335

Chorus 1

Lord You are

More precious than silver

Lord You are

More costly than gold

Lord You are

More beautiful than diamonds

And nothing I desire

Compares with You

Passage (Slides) Mitch

As Jesus and the disciples left the Temple for the final time, they looked up at the buildings and Jesus asked, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.”

Later, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Jesus privately, “When will the destruction of the Temple take place, and what will be the sign that it is about to happen?”

Jesus answered, “Stay alert that no one leads you astray. Many will falsely come in my name saying they know and they will lead many astray.”

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, you will witness nations and Kingdoms rising against each other, and you will experience earthquakes and famines. These events will not be the end, just signs that it is an eventuality.”

“But no one knows that day or hour, neither the angels in heaven or even me, but only the Father. Beware, stay alert, be ready.”

“It is like a man going on a journey, he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. None will know when the master will return.”

“Therefore, stay alert, for you do not know. Don’t be caught off guard or asleep.”

Mark 13:2-8, 32-37

Message Rick (No Slides)

“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, you will witness nations and Kingdoms rising against each other, and you will experience earthquakes and famines.”

To clarify, Jesus says, these are not the signal that the end of the world is near, nor are they the signal of the return of Jesus – these are all signs that there will be an end eventually, that there will be a return of Jesus. An end of suffering a return of Hope.

Let’s be honest, even though we live in a bubble we know the reality of these signs. It would seem that these signs have never been absent, they sure are not absent in our day. We hear of wars, we witness the them in our homes and listen them in our cars. We hear of nations fighting to take over other nations in our homes and in our cars. We hear of earthquakes, famine, and hungry in our homes, in our cars, and actually taking place in our own communities.

We are living in the reality of these signs every day. Humanity has lived in a reality of these signs since exit from the garden.

I wonder, if the ‘end’ is meant to be a blessing to those experiencing the worst of the signs, the worst of the human experience. For those rejected because of who they are, the God, or gods, they worship, the ancestral linage that defines their culture – does the hell of their earthly existence paint ‘our end’ as a hopeful event.

So, our passage today, our passage of hopeless hope, begins with Jesus leaving the temple. Not just leaving the Temple, but leaving the Temple for good. Jesus seen the condition of the temple, the faithless hearts of the leaders, the lack of Holiness awaiting the people hoping for God’s presence. The hollowness of the offerings and sacrifices.

Jesus directs the attention of the disciples to the Temple and says to them:

“Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.”
Later, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Jesus privately, “When will the destruction of the Temple take place, and what will be the sign that it is about to happen?”
Jesus answered, “Stay alert that no one leads you astray. Many will falsely come in my name saying they know and they will lead many astray.” (An echo of Isaiah’s warning to the Israelites before Exile)
“You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, you will witness nations and Kingdoms rising against each other, and you will experience earthquakes and famines. These events will not be the end, just signs that it is an eventuality.”
“But no one knows that day or hour, neither the angels in heaven or even me, but only the Father. Beware, stay alert, be ready.”

Reality

40 years to Destruction
Almost 2,000 years of oppression by Christians, Pagans, Muslims
Romans (Eventually Christian), Persians (pagans, no Islam yet), Byzantines (Christian), Arab (Muslims, Islam relatively new), Turks (Diverse – kick Christians out of Jerusalem), European Crusaders (Christian), Egypt (mostly Islam), Ottoman (diverse, mostly Muslim), 1941 WWI, Brittish (Christian), WWII (1948- Israel gets self governance with over half of Palestians)
All of humanity shares in the responsibility for the condition of all of humanity.

Reality

Mark writing during destruction and brutality
Echoing the words of Daniel still speaking to End time false teachers
Religious humans messing up an already messy situation

Command – Stay Alert

Jesus’ final instruction to the followers who are be left is to proclaim the Good News through their life and their words (Matthew 28-witness through life)
Love God Love Others
Not fight ‘culture wars’ not to force prophesy in the middle east, not hatred but love, and all the actions of Jesus.

Hope Challenge

Scribe and Woman bringing God into the Godless Temple
Bring God into whatever temple we are in
Don’t be fooled by false teachers

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

More Precious Than Silver

Lord You are

More precious than silver

Lord You are

More costly than gold

Lord You are

More beautiful than diamonds

And nothing I desire

Compares with You

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 03.24.24, The Cross, Mark 14-15
‘In-Between’ Bible Study, No BS this Tuesday

Closing Benediction (Slide for each line) Rick

In this Lenten Season we are reminded of our true and lasting hope

We remember Jesus’ final moments in the temple and his words of challenge

We remember the answer of love to the Scribe’s question

May we look for the opportunities for Love

May we go and live out God’s love

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Music [Slides] Billy/Team

This is the Day CCLI Song # 7195146

Verse 1

Whether the sun will shine

Whether the skies will rain

I know that You are good

And this is the day You made

Whether in life or death

Whether in joy or pain

I know this truth remains

That this is the day You made

Chorus (Repeat Chorus)

This is the day that

the Lord has made

We will rejoice as we lift His name

This is the day that

the Lord has made

Come and rejoice we will rejoice

and be glad in it

Order, Words, & Voices 03.10.24

Order, Words, & Voices

03.10.24, When a Little is a Lot, Mark 12:35-44

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs All Hail the Power of Jesus Name Lynn/Team

He is Exalted

Reading and Prayer Cricklins

Songs Medley: In Christ Alone, Cornerstone Lynn/Team

Passage Mark 12:35-44 Linda

Message When a Little is a Lot Rick

Music Gratitude Lynn/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Music This is the Day (Verse 1 & Chorus) Lynn/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

All Hail The Power Of Jesus’ Name CCLI Song # 25400

Verse 1

All hail the pow’r of Jesus’ name

Let angels prostrate fall

Bring forth the royal diadem

And crown Him Lord of all

Bring forth the royal diadem

And crown Him Lord of all

Verse 2

Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race

Ye ransomed from the fall

Hail Him who saves you by His grace

And crown Him Lord of all

Hail Him who saves you by His grace

And crown Him Lord of all

Verse 4

Let ev’ry kindred ev’ry tribe

On this terrestrial ball

To Him all majesty ascribe

And crown Him Lord of all

To Him all majesty ascribe

And crown Him Lord of all

He Is Exalted

Verse

He is exalted

The King is exalted on high

I will praise Him

He is exalted forever exalted

And I will praise His name

Chorus

He is the Lord

Forever His truth shall reign

Heaven and earth

Rejoice in His holy name

He is exalted

The King is exalted on high

Participatory Response (Slides) Cricklins

Leader: Jesus hesitantly entered the city of Jerusalem through the gate used by mighty Kings and victorious conquerors.

Response: Jesus did not enter on a mighty war horse, instead, he rode in on a colt, powerless and meek.

Leader: The crowds cheered for Jesus with shouts of praise and songs of worship.

Response: The crowds envisioned Jesus to be their strong deliverer not a humble sacrifice.

Leader: Jesus entered the temple and was outraged at the abuse of the poor while the rich and influential were treated with favor.

Response: Jesus witnessed those there for recognition and position while others authentically worshiped unseen and unheard.

Leader: Those opposed to Jesus asked questions designed using holy words with an unholy agenda.

Response: Those opposed were answered with holy intent and indisputable truth.

Leader: The powerful sought to keep a tight grasp on their position, power, and control.

Response: The teachings of Jesus empowered the powerless, gave might to the weak, and freedom to the helpless.

Leader: Jesus was asked, “What is the greatest commandment?”

Response: Jesus gave the answer, “Love God and love others.”

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses, while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

In Christ Alone

Verse 1

In Christ alone my hope is found

He is my light my strength my song

This Cornerstone this solid Ground

Firm through the fiercest drought and storm

What heights of love what depths of peace

When fears are stilled when strivings cease

My Comforter my All in All

Here in the love of Christ I stand

Verse 2

In Christ alone who took on flesh

Fullness of God in helpless babe

This gift of love and righteousness

Scorned by the ones He came to save

Till on that cross as Jesus died

The wrath of God was satisfied

For every sin on Him was laid

Here in the death of Christ I live

Cornerstone

Chorus
Christ alone cornerstone
Weak made strong in the Saviour’s love
Through the storm He is Lord
Lord of all

Verse 1

My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness

I dare not trust the sweetest frame

But wholly trust in Jesus’ Name

Chorus

Christ alone cornerstone

Weak made strong in the Saviour’s love

Through the storm He is Lord

Lord of all

Verse 3

There in the ground His body lay

Light of the world by darkness slain

Then bursting forth in glorious Day

Up from the grave He rose again

And as He stands in victory

Sin’s curse has lost its grip on me

For I am His and He is mine

Bought with the precious blood of Christ

Verse 2

When darkness seems to hide His face

I rest on His unchanging grace

In every high and stormy gale

My anchor holds within the veil

Chorus

Christ alone cornerstone

Weak made strong in the Saviour’s love

Through the storm He is Lord

Lord of all

Verse 4

No guilt in life no fear in death

This is the power of Christ in me

From life’s first cry to final breath

Jesus commands my destiny

No power of hell no scheme of man

Can ever pluck me from His hand

Till He returns or calls me home

Here in the power of Christ I’ll stand

Chorus

Christ alone cornerstone

Weak made strong in the Saviour’s love

Through the storm He is Lord

Lord of all

Passage (Slides) Linda

While Jesus was teaching in the temple, he said, “How can the scribes say that the Messiah is the son of David? David himself, by the Holy Spirit, declared,

‘The Lord said to my Lord, “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.” ’

“David himself calls him Lord, so how can he be his son?” And the large crowd was listening to him with delight.

As Jesus taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces –

and they delight in having the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”

Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums.

A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny.

Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury.

For all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

Mark 12:35-44

Message Rick (No Slides)

‘As he came out of the temple…’ (Mark 13:1)

Fig Tree, hollowness/shallowness of religiosity
Condition of Religious Leaders
Ill – Bird at front Window
Jesus leaves hopeful after seeing two counters to typical experience

Authentic Scribe
Whole hearted faithful woman

Three points found in these final temple moments that define Jesus.

Jesus’ mission and describing the kingdom of God—a thoroughly Jewish idea that is now set to be inclusive to all peoples.

Jesus’ consistent focus on the poor and marginalized cuts against the grain of dominant social systems ordered to hierarchies of power and self-aggrandizement. Jesus goes boldly to the cross precisely because he refuses to back down from this ministry of compassion and mercy.
Jesus did not come into the temple, or to the earth, to fulfill OT prophesy, he did not come to build an institution or an army. He did not come to battle or to build a nation. Jesus came to manifest the highest commandment to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength” and to “love your neighbor as yourself”. Jesus creates an alternative community shaped by self-giving and service. Ultimately Jesus, in the flesh, will address the effects of violence and hatred, ultimately, by absorbing that brutality on the cross.
Jesus’ life actions teach us that earthly labels we allow to define populations are false and deceptive attempts to label all persons in those people groups. Labels are meant to prejudice individuals against each other prohibiting all that God means for us to be when we recognize that we are all God created and loved. (scribe and poor woman)

(Ira Brent Driggers, Professor of New Testament Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, University, Columbia, South Carolina)

Scribe – tell story

Up to this point the religious leaders have been unscrupulous.
This final Scribe’s “approach is that of a fellow rabbi, not a hostile opponent. The Torah contained 613 commandments. That is the thrust of the scribe’s question, ‘how could anyone remember them and apply them appropriately? If one could prioritize them, i.e., identify one command as supreme, then there might be hope of obeying the whole.’ In answering, Jesus does not just give the greatest commandment, he also gives the second most important commandment: ’You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ This commandment might have been subsumed in the first commandment – however, Jesus is not content with love of neighbor as an implicit addendum. He gives the second commandment an explicit billing. Then, in a redundant restatement, Jesus claims no other commandment is greater than these two commandments. Jesus rules out any religious practice that neglects compassion towards all.”
(N. Clayton Croy, New Testament, Trinity Seminary, Columbus, OH)
Jesus says to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”

Woman tell story – Sacrifice

Jesus points to widow giving her small amount and says to disciples, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”
According to Jesus’ mode of accounting, the magnitude of the gift is determined by the motivation behind the gift. It’s not the dollar amount that counts, but the devotion amount. Jesus commends the pensioner who gives out of poverty, not the millionaire whose name is on a building.
Living Holy, making all spaces holy

Music (Slides) Lynn/Team

Gratitude

Verse 1

All my words fall short

I got nothing new

How could I express

All my gratitude

Verse 2

I could sing these songs

As I often do

But every song must end

And You never do

Chorus

So I throw up my hands

And praise You again and again

‘Cause all that I have is a hallelujah hallelujah

And I know it’s not much

But I’ve nothing else fit for a king

Except for a heart singing hallelujah

Hallelujah

Verse 3

I’ve got one response

I’ve got just one move

With my arms stretched wide

I will worship You

Chorus

So I throw up my hands

And praise You again and again

‘Cause all that I have is a hallelujah hallelujah

And I know it’s not much

But I’ve nothing else fit for a king

Except for a heart singing hallelujah

Hallelujah

Bridge

Come on my soul

Oh don’t you get shy on me

Lift up your song

‘Cause you’ve got a lion inside of those lungs

Get up and praise the Lord

Chorus

So I throw up my hands

And praise You again and again

‘Cause all that I have is a hallelujah hallelujah

And I know it’s not much

But I’ve nothing else fit for a king

Except for a heart singing hallelujah

Hallelujah

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 03.17.24, Stay Alert Mark 13
‘In-Between’ Bible Study, This Tuesday at noon, Nielsens’, Mark 12:35-44

Closing Benediction Rick

As we leave this place may we remember that Christ is our sure foundation

Christ is the head and cornerstone

Christ is the chosen of the Lord

Christ is the truth that binds us together

May our lives be a song of praise and honor to the Father, to the Son,

praise, and to the Spirit.

May our lives reflect our love for God

May our lives reflect God’s love for all

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Music [Slides] Lynn/Team

This is the Day CCLI Song # 7195146

Verse 1

Whether the sun will shine

Whether the skies will rain

I know that You are good

And this is the day You made

Whether in life or death

Whether in joy or pain

I know this truth remains

That this is the day You made

Chorus (Repeat Chorus)

This is the day that the Lord has made

We will rejoice as we lift His name

This is the day that the Lord has made

Come and rejoice we will rejoice and be glad in it

Order, Words, & Voices 03.03.23

Order, Words, & Voices

03.03.24, No Respect No Recognition, Mark 12:1-12

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs Lord Reign in Me Billy/Team

This Is The Day

Reading and Prayer Cricklins

Songs Take My Life (Holiness) Billy/Team

Give Thanks

Passage Mark 12:1-12 Mitch

Message No Respect, No Recognition Rick

Music Take My Life Billy/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Music This is the Day (Verse 1 & Chorus) Billy/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (slides) Billy/Team

Lord Reign in Me CCLI Song # 2490706

Verse 1

Over all the earth You reign on high

Every mountain stream every sunset sky

But my one request Lord my only aim

Is that You’d reign in me again

Chorus

Lord reign in me reign in Your pow’r

Over all my dreams in my darkest hour

You are the Lord of all I am

So won’t You reign in me again

Verse 2

Over every thought over every word

May my life reflect the beauty of my Lord

‘Cause You mean more to me

Than any earthly thing

So won’t You reign in me again

This is the Day CCLI Song # 7195146

Chorus

This is the day that the Lord has made

We will rejoice as we lift His name

This is the day that the Lord has made

Come and rejoice we will rejoice and be glad in it

Verse 1

Whether the sun will shine

Whether the skies will rain

I know that You are good

And this is the day You made

Whether in life or death

Whether in joy or pain

I know this truth remains

That this is the day You made

Verse 2

Now I can walk in faith

You will protect my way

Your every work is good

And this is the day You made

I am a child of Yours

You are the One who saves

I am redeemed by love

And this is the day You made

Bridge

This is the day

Come and sing your praise

For the Lord now reigns

On the throne of grace

Soon is the day

He will bring us home

And we have this hope

For we are His own

Participatory Response (Slides) Cricklins

Leader: In his time on earth, Jesus spoke words of life to the religious but few were listening.

Response: Jesus still speaks words of truth today, may we be faithful with open ears.

Leader: God invests in us – we are reminded of it every time we walk into the sunshine and even when we get soaked from the rain.

Response: Evidence of God’s gift is available to us each day, may we not miss the reminders.

Leader: The evidence of God’s gift was undeniable, yet many failed to see Jesus, they failed to recognize God’s sacrifice.

Response: Our path has met Jesus’ path, we must not miss the opportunities to recognize God’s presence.

Leader: Those who recognized the Son, first respected the Father.

Response: As we respect God above all others we then recognize the Son, the gift, the sacrifice.

Leader: Hope was seen even when hope seemed unseeable.

Response: May we too see that hope.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses,

while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (slides) Billy/Team

Take My Life (Holiness) # 1617154

Verse 1

Holiness holiness

Is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness holiness

Is what You want from me

Verse 2

Faithfulness faithfulness

Is what I long for

Faithfulness is what I need

Faithfulness faithfulness

Is what You want from me

Chorus

So take my heart and form it

Take my mind transform it

Take my will conform it

To Yours to Yours oh Lord

Verse 3

Righteousness righteousness

Is what I long for

Righteousness is what I need

Righteousness righteousness

Is what You want from me

Give Thanks CCLI Song # 2028

Chorus

Give thanks with a grateful heart

Give thanks to the Holy One

Give thanks because He’s given

Jesus Christ His Son

Verse

And now let the weak say I am strong

Let the poor say I am rich

Because of what the Lord has done for us

Ending

Give thanks

Passage (Slides) Mitch

Jesus began to speak to the religious leaders in parables, saying, “A man planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a pit for the winepress, and built a watchtower; then he leased it to tenants and went away.

When the harvest season came, the owner sent a servant to the tenants to collect his share of the produce of the vineyard. But the tenants seized the servant, beat him, and sent him away empty-handed.

Again, the owner sent another servant to the tenants; this one the tenants beat over the head and insulted. When the owner sent yet another servant, the tenants actually killed him.

This continued with many other servants; some were beaten, and others were killed. After there were no more servants for the owner to send, he sent his beloved son thinking that ‘The tenants will surely respect my son.’

However, the tenants said to one another, ‘This is the owner’s son; let’s kill him and the inheritance will be ours, the land and vineyard will be ours.’

So, the tenants seized and killed the son, and threw him out of the vineyard.”

Mark 12:1-8

Message Rick

Opening – Edward Riley, Gene Griffin, Bobby Brown write,

‘Everybody’s talkin all this stuff about me, why don’t they just let me live. I don’t need permission. I Make my own decisions, that’s my prerogative.’

The Timeless Parable – Detail Parable

Isaiah 5:1-7, Leadership questioning knew this parable, Details of parable
Entitlement in the midst of Undeserved Grace
Tenants didn’t respect Creator/Owner so they were unable to fully recognize the son (and the truth they were not the heirs). It is natural for them to try to take over the vineyard.

Way Back, Back, Then, A Little After Then, Now, and Later

Thread throughout history in regard to power/greatness and the religious leaders/establishment. Mark wrote this as Temple has been, or is being, destroyed as a group of zealot Jews rebelled against the Roman Oppressors – as a result, all Jews/Israelites are being punished by Rome.
Jesus asks the religious leaders who have recognized that they are the tenants in this parable, ‘What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this scripture: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is amazing in our eyes”?’ (Mark 12:9-11)
Eschatology – Some believers trying to take over the vineyard. God did not reject the promised children, God did not forget the promise.
God’s repeated Grace – more messengers, the people ignored truth in their entitlement, eventually they would be replaced but vineyard would remain, the promise of God was, and is, still intact..
For the Religious leaders hearing these words, this is yet another messenger calling them back to holiness, a calling that will ultimately be ignored by the killing of the Son.

Warning Beyond/To Us

Constantly Respect God and Recognize the Son.
The thread – Fig tree – authentically be the message of the Son.

Action

…Live daily to see creator/owner instead of self

…Heart constant – love God, Love others

Reality

When, in the Middle Ages, the European church chose to send military crusades to wipe out the Islam religion in the Middle East and replace it with Christianity, they were attempting to take over the vineyard.
When Hitler decided the world had a ‘Jew problem, and a Homosexual problem, and a disabled persons problem’, and attempted to solve the problem with brutality and death, he was attempting to take over the vineyard.
When Americans had an ‘Indigenous People problem’, and attempted to solve the problem by forcing the original Americans onto a trail of death, they were attempting to take over the vineyard.
When slavery in the United States was abolished and whites saw the threat of their own diminished power and greatness they attempted to solve it through anti-voting laws and Jim Crow restrictions in their attempt to take over the vineyard.
When an OK state senator who was uncomfortable with an entire population of teens and young adults dealt with his discomfort by calling them all filthy and said that he did not want them in his state, he was attempting to take over the vineyard.
When a Christian College in CO, & a Mega Church in CA decide to force their versions of the Christianity on their community, using their numbers they take over the city power, attempting to take over the vineyard.
When thousands are dying in Israel and Gaza as thousand more are dying in Ukraine and parts of Africa as they all attempt to wipe each other out, they are attempting to take over the vineyard.
When the religious leaders and the Roman oppressor politicians decided that they had a ‘Jesus problem’ they attempted to resolve their problem by killing the Son of the Vineyard owner, they were attempting to take over the vineyard.

This season of lent is a reminder of owner and creator of vineyard. Pray.

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

Take My Life (Holiness) # 1617154

Verse 1

Holiness holiness

Is what I long for

Holiness is what I need

Holiness holiness

Is what You want from me

Verse 2

Faithfulness faithfulness

Is what I long for

Faithfulness is what I need

Faithfulness faithfulness

Is what You want from me

Chorus

So take my heart and form it

Take my mind transform it

Take my will conform it

To Yours to Yours oh Lord

Verse 3

Righteousness righteousness

Is what I long for

Righteousness is what I need

Righteousness righteousness

Is what You want from me

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 03.10.24, ‘When A Little is a Lot’, Mark 12:35-44
‘In-Between’ Bible Study, Tuesday, March 5 – this week at 2:00pm at Nielsen’s, Mark 12:13-27
Giving Statements Mailed
Spring Forward Next Sunday before bed

Closing Benediction Rick

Whether the sun will shine Whether the skies will rain

I know that You are good And this is the day You made

Whether in life or death Whether in joy or pain

I know this truth remains That this is the day You made

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Music [Slides] Lynn/Team

This is the Day CCLI Song # 7195146

Verse 1

Whether the sun will shine

Whether the skies will rain

I know that You are good

And this is the day You made

Whether in life or death

Whether in joy or pain

I know this truth remains

That this is the day You made

Chorus (Repeat Chorus)

This is the day that the Lord has made

We will rejoice as we lift His name

This is the day that the Lord has made

Come and rejoice we will rejoice and be glad in it

Order, Word, & Voices 02.25.24

Order, Words, & Voices

02.25.24, Being Great, Mark 10:35-52

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs Great Are You Lord Lynn/Team

Indescribable

Reading and Prayer Petty

Songs I Surrender All Lynn/Team

Once Again

Passage Mark 10:35-52 Renee

Message Being Great Rick

Music Softly and Tenderly Lynn/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Music The Goodness of God (Chorus) Lynn/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

Great Is The Lord CCLI Song # 1149

Verse

Great is the Lord

He is holy and just

By His power we trust in His love

Great is the Lord

He is faithful and true

By His mercy He proves He is love

Chorus 1

Great is the Lord

And worthy of glory

Great is the Lord

And worthy of praise

Great is the Lord

Now lift up your voice

Great is the Lord

Verse

Great is the Lord

He is holy and just

By His power we trust in His love

Great is the Lord

He is faithful and true

By His mercy He proves He is love

Chorus 1

Great is the Lord

And worthy of glory

Great is the Lord

And worthy of praise

Great is the Lord

Now lift up your voice

Great is the Lord

Chorus 2

Great are You Lord

And worthy of glory

Great are You Lord

And worthy of praise

Great are You Lord

I lift up my voice

Great are You Lord

Indescribable CCLI Song # 4403076

Verse 1

From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea

Creation’s revealing Your majesty

From the colors of Fall to the fragrance of Spring

Ev’ry creature unique in the song that it sings

All exclaiming

Chorus 1

Indescribable uncontainable

You placed the stars in the sky

And You know them by name

You are amazing God

All powerful untamable

Awestruck we fall to our knees

As we humbly proclaim

You are amazing God

Verse 2

Who has told ev’ry lightning bolt where it should go

Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow

Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light

Yet conceals it to bring us the coolness of night

None can fathom

Interlude

You are amazing God

Chorus 2

Indescribable uncontainable

You placed the stars in the sky

And You know them by name

You are amazing God

Incomparable unchangeable

You see the depths of my heart

And You love me the same

You are amazing God

Ending

You see the depths of my heart

And You love me the same

You are amazing God

(REPEAT)

You see the depths of our hearts

And You love us the same

You are amazing God

Participatory Response (Slides) Petty

Leader: May we come into the presence of God with an attitude of helplessness and a trusting dependence.

Response: May we come before God with a joyful hope, a teachable spirit, and an open heart and mind.

Leader: May we be humbled by our moments of foolishness, prayers of selfishness and a self-absorbed focus.

Response: May we grow in our concern for others with an awareness of opportunities to serve rather than to be served.

Leader: May we permit God to give us wisdom and grace as we see with the eyes of Jesus

Response: May we see through a holy perspective and may we respond with holy actions.

Leader: May the lessons we have learned lead to a life that is transformed.

Response: May our lives be transformed by the path that Jesus traveled for us.

Leader: May our pursuit be not on bringing glory to self but to God.

Response: May our path lead not to recognition but to sacrifice.

Leader: May today be a moment on that path.

Response: May this day be lived in gratefulness for the steps walked before us.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses,

while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (slides) Lynn/Team

I Surrender All CCLI Song # 23189

Verse 1

All to Jesus I surrender

All to Him I freely give

I will ever love and trust Him

In His presence daily live

Chorus

I surrender all

All to Thee my blessed Savior

I surrender all

Verse 2

All to Jesus I surrender

Humbly at His feet I bow

Worldly pleasures all forsaken

Take me Jesus take me now

Chorus

I surrender all

All to Thee my blessed Savior

I surrender all

Verse 4

All to Jesus I surrender

Lord I give myself to Thee

Fill me with Thy love and power

Let Thy blessing fall on me

Chorus

I surrender all

All to Thee my blessed Savior

I surrender all

Once Again CCLI Song # 1564362

Verse 1

Jesus Christ

I think upon Your sacrifice

You became nothing

Poured out to death

Many times I’ve wondered

At Your gift of life

And I’m in that place once again

I’m in that place once again

Chorus

Once again

I look upon the cross

Where You died

I’m humbled by Your mercy

And I’m broken inside

Once again I thank You

Once again I pour out my life

Verse 2

Now You are

Exalted to the highest place

King of the heavens

Where one day I’ll bow

But for now

I marvel at this saving grace

And I’m full of praise once again

I’m full of praise once again

Chorus

Once again

I look upon the cross

Where You died

I’m humbled by Your mercy

And I’m broken inside

Once again I thank You

Once again I pour out my life

Bridge

Thank You for the cross

Thank You for the cross my Friend

Chorus

I surrender all

All to Thee my blessed Savior

I surrender all

Passage (Slides) Renee

Brothers, James and John, came forward and asked Jesus, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.”

Jesus said to them, “What is it you want me to do for you?” James and John said to Jesus, “Appoint us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.”

Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”

The two brothers replied, “We are able.” Then Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized you will be baptized,

However, to sit at my right hand or at my left is not within my authority to appoint. The assignment of those seats has already been set.”

The other ten disciples were angry with James and John because of the request the two had made of Jesus.

So Jesus called all twelve disciples together and said to them, “You know that the leaders of the gentiles use their position to lord their power over the people. The leaders become horrible tyrants.

However, this must not be so among you. Whoever wishes to become great over you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave to all.

For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many.”

Mark 10:35-45

Message Rick

? Opening Illustration: Store clerk w/survey

Introduction

Passage presents us Jesus affirming the mystery of the why of his death and the how of the avenue of his death. Our grappling with blood and suffering. Praise team member not wanting songs about blood after school and concert shootings.
Ill: Deaths this past week.
In this moment, we also tie in Jesus teaching at the start of his ministry, the counter intuitive ‘Blesseds’ with the oncoming suffering. Jesus radical teachings of love, mercy, and compassion.
Jesus’ followers are, & we are, challenged to adopt Jesus’ radical counter to way the world sees greatness & power
Context – Jesus again, and for final time in Mark, telling his fate in Jerusalem

[Slide – leave screen share up until noted to end]

“We are going up to Jerusalem, and the I will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn me to death;

[Slide] then they will hand me over to the gentiles; they will mock me and spit upon me and flog me and kill me, and after three days I will rise again.” (Mark 10:32-34)

[Slide] Jesus has just told of his coming suffering as James and John approach him asking, “Appoint us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” (Mark 10:37)

J&J mother, Salmon
Transfiguration moment
Jesus has mind set on suffering as approaching Jerusalem.
Jesus asks if they are able and ready to face his ‘Cup’, his suffering They say they are, Jesus knows differently – tells them this later.

Matt Skinner writes,

[Slide] “When Jesus softly chastises the two for their ignorance and speaks about “the cup” he must drink and “the baptism” he must undergo, he reiterates that violence and death that awaits him in Jerusalem.

[Slide] Such is his role, corresponding to the paradoxical nature of his kingship, according to which he will die as an utterly despised and powerless “king.”

[Slide] Mark’s Gospel emphasizes that such rejection and death are inevitable and required, because of who Jesus is, because of the boundary-breaking character of his ministry,

[Slide] and because those who wield power in the world will do all they can to protect themselves and their prerogatives from the implications of that ministry.” (Matt Skinner, Professor of New Testament, Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minn.)

[Slide] Greatness – Other disciples outraged at request.

Jesus gathers disciples together to calm them down
Explains worldly greatness as opposed to holy greatness- and what earthly greatness is about to do to him in Jerusalem by Jewish institution that by Religious and Politics
Holy power vs. Earthly Power
Holy Eternal Greatness vs Fleeting Earthly Greatness
Radical affirmation and reflection of Jesus’ life
Suffering is radical renunciation of earthly priorities

[Slide] Jesus’ death is an affirmation, and a reflection, of his life. His suffering is a radical renunciation of earthly authority and privilege. All the more radical to both of these points is the fact that it is God’s son who is the suffering servant.

[Slide] The Greek word detailing Jesus’ act of sacrifice/death, lytron points to the fact that Jesus’ death is a sacrificial ransom that is given to secure the release of humanity. To free those God created who could not free themself from the imprisonment they themselves had chosen. Jesus’ death is transactional, a payment made to satisfy the penalties accrued by our human rejection, our turning away from God.

[Slide] However, this ransom, this lytron in this holy act, is a divine liberation not a payment as we commonly assume. It is not an empowerment of evil through an eternal payment that results in riches for evil – it is a holy reckoning with evil.

Here is a significant fact about Jesus’ death and divine ransom. Even though Jesus talks of his coming death and how it will free humanity from oppression and captivity restoring us to God – Jesus does not really explain how all of this works. He doesn’t explain the need for blood and death – we try to imagine a thread requiring blood that begins in the garden but they do not fully add up and explain. It is one of those things that, at least in this time, we are unable to adequately grasp. We are returned to the community of God’s reign through Jesus life, death, and resurrection, it is not fully explainable. A fact that we humans do not like.

Jesus therefore declares (without stopping to clarify precisely how) that God, through Jesus’ death, will free people from oppression and captivity to another power, restoring us to God’s embrace and community.

[Slide] Death will Jesus’ final Public Lesson of Greatness –The measure of greatness for Jesus, and for the followers of Jesus, is measured by their ability to live as servants and slaves, even if that life means suffering oppression at the hands of those who wield power. Jesus previously compared himself to a child, an image of powerlessness and vulnerability. Jesus forgoes his own power to control his own fate and to prevail over others.

[Slide] “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many”. (Mark 10:45)

[End Screen Share]

???

“Once we begin to lust after political power and political influence, we lose our prophetic voice.” (Rev. Randall Balmer)

The measure of greatness for Jesus, and for the followers of Jesus, is measured by their ability to live as servants and slaves, even if that life means suffering oppression at the hands of those who wield power. Jesus previously compared himself to a child, an image of powerlessness and vulnerability. Jesus forgoes his own power to control his own fate and to prevail over others.

Christian focus at Easter
Jesus suffering, Death, and Resurrection
Challenge and reminder to us to check our view of power and greatness

Pray

Music (Slides) Lynn/Team

Softly And Tenderly CCLI Song # 28380

Verse 1

Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling

Calling for you and for me

See on the portals He’s waiting and watching

Watching for you and for me

Chorus

Come home come home

Ye who are weary come home

Earnestly tenderly Jesus is calling

Calling O sinner come home

Verse 2

Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading

Pleading for you and for me

Why should we linger and heed not His mercies

Mercies for you and for me

Chorus

Come home come home

Ye who are weary come home

Earnestly tenderly Jesus is calling

Calling O sinner come home

Verse 4

O for the wonderful love He has promised

Promised for you and for me

Tho we have sinned He has mercy and pardon

Pardon for you and for me

Chorus

Come home come home

Ye who are weary come home

Earnestly tenderly Jesus is calling

Calling O sinner come home

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 02.25, Mark 12:1-12, ‘No Respect, No Recognition’
‘In-Between’ Bible Study, Tuesday, Feb 27 – this week at 11:00, at Nielsen’s, Mark 11:1-33
Lent
Giving Statements Mailed

Closing Benediction (Slide per line) Rick

We leave this place into a world that asks for power

A world that demands greatness

A world that longs to be first

A world that centers on self.

However, we leave with an understanding of a calling to live life differently

A life that recognizes the need for sacrifice

A life that exists in a state of humility

A life that see others as much as we see ourself

As we leave this place may our lives shine a different light

A light that shines on injustice, judgment, and condemnation

A light that reveals suffering and misery

A light that pierces the darkness of hidden pain

A light that reflects the sacrifice made for us on the cross

A light that gives hope in the midst of darkness

May we go into a world armed with the love that is God

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

Music [Slides] Lynn/Team

Goodness Of God CCLI #7117726

All my life You have been faithful

All my life You have been so so good

With every breath that I am able

I will sing of the goodness of God

Order, Words, & Voices 02.18.24

Order, Words, & Voices

02.18.24, The Things We Cannot Do, Mark 10:17-34

Order

Pre Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Songs Your Lovingkindness (Father of Love) Billy/Team

Hallelujah He Reigns

Reading and Prayer Petty

Songs Draw Me Close Billy/Team

Change My Heart O God

Passage Mark 10:17-34 Renee

Message The Things We Cannot Do Rick

Music Change My Heart O God Billy/Team

Community/Benediction Rick

Closing Peace Rick

Music The Goodness of God (Chorus) Billy/Team

Post Worship Music – Spotify – Open and Close

Music (slides) Billy/Team

Your Lovingkindness CCLI Song # 818174

Verse

Father of love

Lord of all creation

I will bless Your name

Forever and ever

I will declare

Your grace and Your mercy

And tell of Your unfailing love

Chorus

Your lovingkindness

Is good to all

Your wings of mercy

Lift me when I fall

Your lovingkindness

Meets my ev’ry need

You cleanse me from unrighteousness

And You give new life to me

Hallelujah He Reigns CCLI Song # 290455

Chorus

Hallelujah

He reigns in majesty

Hallelujah

He reigns in glory

Hallelujah

He reigns in righteousness

Oh hallelujah hallelujah

Hallelujah hallelujah hallelujah

Hallelujah

He reigns in righteousness

Oh hallelujah

Participatory Response (Slides) Petty

Leader: We come into God’s presence, not because of what we bring, or do not bring, we come before God as a child, innocent and incapable.

Response: We come before God because of God not because of ourself.

Leader: We come before God with an attitude of helplessness and trusting dependence.

Response: We come before God with a joyful hope and a teachable spirit.

Leader: We come before God with an open heart and a receiving mind.

Response: We come before God with a hunger for truth and a thirst for understanding.

Leader: We come because of God’s love and to grow in God’s grace.

Response: We come to praise God who has given that which is unattainable.

Leader: May what we have or do not have cease to be the pride of our lives.

Response: May our gains and losses not be the hope on which we stand.

Leader: Today we enter into the presence of God.

Response: Today we stand on the life of Jesus our Rock.

Leader: Join us in the prayer of Jesus,

Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

Forgive us our trespasses,

while we forgive those who trespass against us.

And, lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever. Amen.

Music (slides) Billy/Team

Draw Me Close CCLI Song # 1459484

Verse

Draw me close to You

Never let me go

I lay it all down again

To hear You say that I’m Your friend

You are my desire no one else will do

‘Cause nothing else could

take Your place

To feel the warmth of Your embrace

Help me find the way

Bring me back to You

Chorus

You’re all I want

You’re all I’ve ever needed

You’re all I want

Help me know You are near

Ending

Help me know You are here

Change My Heart O God #1565

Chorus

Change my heart oh God

Make it ever true

Change my heart oh God

May I be like You

Verse

You are the potter

I am the clay

Mold me and make me

This is what I pray

Passage (Slides) Renee

A man ran up and knelt before Jesus asking, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone.”

“You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit murder or adultery and you shall not steal, bear false witness, or, defraud. Plus, you shall honor your father and mother.’”

The man said to Jesus, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.”

Jesus, looked at the man and lovingly said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then you will be ready to follow me.”

The man was shocked by Jesus’ reply and went away grieving, for he had much.

Jesus said to his disciples, “It is hard for those who have much to enter the kingdom of God!”

The disciples were surprised by his words, as Jesus continued “It is just plain difficult to enter the kingdom of God. And, for those who are rich it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than to enter the kingdom of God.”

The disciples were astounded and said to one another, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus said, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.”

Mark 10:17-27

Message Rick

So, a man approaches Jesus and bows down before asking the question, ‘What must I do to inherit eternal life?’

Genuineness of man, not set up
Common Question/Different perspectives
But, before asking Q, he addresses Jesus as ‘Good Teacher’
Power of word ‘Good’
Probing perspective of man ‘Who do you say I am?’

[Slide] Jesus responds, “You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit murder or adultery and you shall not steal, bear false witness, or, defraud. Plus, you shall honor your father and mother.’”

[Slide] Notice that Jesus uses the commandments 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and ten – the second table/tablet. First table/tablet, first four commandments are the relating to God.
[Slide – leave slide up until noted to change] First four Commandments- no other gods, do not make false idols, do not take the name of the Lord in vain, & remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.
Roger Williams, the founder of Rhode Island, used this rabbinacle concept of 2 tables/tablets to develop our concepts of separation of church and state. The first table/tablet were for the church to control and the second 6 were for government to keep control. Thus governing law could properly address moral issues such as adultery, stealing, and murder because these were in the second table of the law. Puritans later objected to this stating that the second of the 6 commandments were for God and God alone to judge.
[Slide] 300 years after Jesus, theologian Augustine, in considering this 2 table concept in this passage along with others, wrote, “Love is only made perfect through the two commands – love God and Love your neighbor. Why is it that Jesus, and later the Apostle, mention only the love of neighbor.

[Slide] Is it because people can lie about their love of God, since it is put to the test less often?

[Slide] However, we are more easily found guilty of not loving our neighbor when we behave wickedly towards others, which tells us that we do not love God.

[Slide] It follows that one who loves God with our heart, all our soul, and all our mind, also loves love our neighbor as ourself, because God, whom we love, loves our neighbor as well.” (Augustine, ancient theologian, abb)

[End Screen Share]

Eternal Life

Afterlife – different versions of afterlife, compared to our vision of eternity and heaven.
A sizable group of Jews in time of Jesus did not believe in the afterlife, in general they did not believe in any type of resurrection.
Others believed that the afterlife was an eternity of knowing more and more of who God is.
Others saw the idea of eternal life as a full life now and forever. Therefore, the man was not just seeking an version of the afterlife, but he wanted to live a full life now.

Jesus answers the “What do I do….” “Give up your ‘much’”

The Man cannot, walks away dejected.
[Slide] ‘When the rich man leaves, Jesus teaches that wealth has a way of distracting people from seeking the kingdom of God.

In the interpretation of the parable of the sower, the desire for money and possessions were key elements that enticed people from the word, the truth, of God (4:19).

Perhaps this is why Jesus had sent out his disciples on their mission with only a staff, to rely on divine providence through the gifts of those to whom they minister (6:6b-13).

Still, in our text, the disciples are amazed at Jesus’ teaching because a pious rich man appears to have all the resources necessary for gaining eternal life.’ (Elizabeth Shively, Lecturer in New Testament Studies, University of St. Andrews, St. Andrews, Scotland, UK)

[Slide] Jesus addresses the surprise of the disciples “It is just hard to enter the kingdom of God!” was not just at this man, it was not just directed at rich people –

it was a statement for all peoples, for all people can get distracted by something. Jesus then adds that it is especially difficult for those who have much. (see Mark 10:24)

For the man to live the life of eternity it was going to mean living in a full pursuit, not to please God, nor was it to receive deliverance. It was to know God, and the life God has given. Money/much/anything, could not be allowed to be a distraction.

[End Screen Share]

Closing – “Who is God, What is Jesus’ Purpose”…Jesus prepares the disciples for Jesus, the Messiah, act of letting go and loving God over all.

Transformation
They were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them; they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. He took the twelve aside again and began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, “Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death; then they will hand him over to the gentiles; they will mock him and spit upon him and flog him and kill him, and after three days he will rise again.” (Mark 10:32-34)
The question for us, today, is what is your “Much” that distracts you?

Pray.

Music (Slides) Billy/Team

Change My Heart O God #1565

Chorus

Change my heart oh God

Make it ever true

Change my heart oh God

May I be like You

Verse

You are the potter

I am the clay

Mold me and make me

This is what I pray

Community (Slides) Rick

Next Sunday, 02.25, Mark 10:35-52, ‘Being Great’
‘In-Between’ Bible Study, Tuesday, Feb 18 at Nielsen’s house, Psalm 19
Lent
Giving Statements Mailed

Closing Benediction (Slide per line) Rick

May we leave this place with the realization that all we have was a gift of God.

May we never cling to what we have so tightly that it holds us down.

May our much never withhold us from enough.

May our hands be open and able to hold on to our blessings lightly.

May our hearts be open to pass our blessings on to our world.

May our minds be open to learn and adopt.

May our steps be in accordance with God’s path.

May our future be navigated by an eternal mindset and a holy willingness.

May our strength be dependent on God’s power.

May our weakness be comforted by God’s sacrifice.

Closing Peace (Slides) Rick

[Slide] Leader: May the peace of the Lord go with you.

[Slide] Response: And also with you.

[Slide] Leader: Go in the peace of the Lord.

Music [Slides] Billy/Team

Goodness Of God (2 times)

All my life You have been faithful

All my life You have been so so good

With every breath that I am able

I will sing of the goodness of God

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Verse 1

Verse 2

CornerstoneChorusChrist alone cornerstoneWeak made strong in the Saviour’s loveThrough the storm He is LordLord of all

Verse 1

Chorus

Verse 3

Verse 2

Chorus

Verse 4

Chorus

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Cornerstone

Chorus
Christ alone cornerstone
Weak made strong in the Saviour’s love
Through the storm He is Lord
Lord of all