A question is being asked of many Christians today . . . “Are you a tolerant Christian?” But the danger in that question is that tolerant in our world today doesn’t mean just loving the person but hating the sin; it means do you “APPROVE” of a particular lifestyle, even if it goes against the Word of God?
Friends, in a world in which we are called to be tolerant (approving) of those practices and beliefs which are contrary to God, we are simply to acknowledge our need to repent and to hold fast! And, for those who repent and hold fast, there is a promise of a reward!
We read in Jesus’ words to the Church in Thyatira, “Only hold fast what you have until I come. The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father. And I will give him the morning star” (Revelation 2:25-28). Jesus offered a share in His Kingdom. This quotation from Psalm 2 in those verses speaks of the authority of the Messiah when He rules over the earth. As one commentator I read indicated, “In that day, righteousness will be enforced, and those who rebel against Jesus will be dashed to pieces like a clay pot hit with a rod of iron. Jesus includes this here in Revelation 2 to give hope to the faithful.”
Christians can overcome and keep Jesus’ works until the end. We must not become overly discouraged at immorality and idolatry all around us . . . even among Christians. We must not give into being tolerant. God’s work will still go on through His overcomers.
When Jesus declares, “I will give him the morning star.” Jesus offered them a reward greater than the kingdom. He offered them the reward of Himself because He is the Morning Star, we read about in Revelation 22:16. Friends, if we desire to receive the “reward,” we are called to REPENT and HOLD FAST. Will you make the commitment to REPENT and HOLD FAST in a world calling you to compromise your faith and tolerate immorality and idolatry?
Sunday Worship
Pastor Glen will continue the sermon series, Ephesians: Our Identity and Purpose! His sermon this Sunday is “Cleaning Up,” based upon Ephesians 5:3-6. Please read this text in preparation for worship.
Adult Sunday School
Our Adult Sunday school class will meet this Sunday immediately after worship in the large Sunday school room. Please join Janet Coiner and others for a wonderful time around God’s Word!! We will be studying Mark 15: Jesus’ Trial and Death! Please bring your Bible!!
Spiritual Gifts Class
Would you like to know the way God has wired you? Would you like to know your spiritual gifts? If you are interested in a five-week spiritual gifts class, please contact Marty Porter or Pastor Glen. The class would begin on Monday, October 24th and continue through the end of November (with the exception of Thanksgiving week). The teacher would be Annette Williams. The Session is hoping many will take advantage of this exciting opportunity.
Fall Women’s Bible Study
Join other ladies for a journey through a Bible study on Gideon with Priscilla Shirer . . . a 7-week Bible study – Continuing through November 8th . . . Every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. in the Adult Sunday school room. Please contact Marty Porter (540.471-2619) for more information.
Men’s Bible Study
Our Men’s Bible Study meets each Tuesday morning from 7:00 to 8:00 a.m. at Panera Bread in the Community Room. We are studying the letter of James. Come on out men . . . and bring a friend!!
Tithes and Offerings
An offering box is available when you enter or exit the sanctuary. Additionally, online giving opportunities are available on the website.
September Financial Report
Offerings: Monthly: $13,920 YTD: $141,828.60
Expenses: Monthly: $20,549.95 YTD: $140,765
We have also received monies designated for our capital campaign and restricted giving. In August we received $70.00 for restricted giving and $960.00 in our capital campaign.
Mission Corner
Dr. Stephanie Black, who is in transition to Nairobi, Kenya, lives out her passion for equipping emerging global church leaders in Africa and Asia with skills in reading and interpreting the Bible. She is a member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church World Outreach in a co-op partnership with Serge.
Missions Team is active keeping in touch with our missionaries and other ministries. Please keep updated! You can visit our website and go to the Outreach Page.
Prayer Meeting
Our Weekly Prayer meeting is held at our church facility each Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. We invite you to join with us as we seek the Lord’s face!
October Birthdays
George Wilson, Leana Wright, and Bob Simmons (1015); Tyler Bouthillier (10/29)