Sunday, January 31, 2010

     It was good to be in the house of the Lord and worship together as led by Pastor Josh and the worship team.  Jane Ringer and Sara Shockley presented a duet that was a blessing to all, “So You Would Come.”  We had a special time of prayer for the sick and for those who will be participating in the MAPS construction trip to Chile.

     Pastor Roger continued his message, “Confronting an Evil World.”  We had previously explored the Christian’s response to evil through the avenues of grieving, praying and repenting.  Three more reactions of the Christian to evil were presented in part two of Pastor’s message.  The next important step is to be reminded that we overcome evil with good as instructed in Romans 12:21.  Because of the nature of Jesus within each believer, the believer cannot be defeated. The Christian also must guard against even the very appearance of evil.  We don’t want to give the enemy an inroad nor do we want to be a stumbling block to others.  We need to always consider the possible outcome of those things we do and remember that while we are in the world we are not to be a part the world’s system of values and beliefs.  Finally, we are called to actively expose the works of darkness.  This simply means seeing something for what it really is by shining the light of God’s truth on darkness.  This doesn’t mean that we play the part of the Holy Spirit in the lives of others.  However, we need to be courageous, shine the light of Christ, and speak the truth in love. 

     Todd Bell led the congregation in worship in the evening service. Valerie Hoffecker and Rebecca Brewer offered up praise through the song, “Famous One.”  Following Pastor Roger’s evening message, “How to Overcome,” several came forward to follow the Lord in baptism.  Baptized were Timothy, Justin, and Matthew Jenkins, Elijah Brewer, and Tim Whitworth.  We praise the Lord for the commitment these individuals have made to God!