Mid-Week Encouragement February 7th, 2024
It's sometimes frustrating when we share scripture with others, and they do not receive it as we imagined they would. There are many reasons why, but none would be considered legitimate. We know the Word of God to be true, and we should not be ashamed of what it teaches.
What is even more frustrating is when a Christian rejects the Word of God because it doesn't fit into their paradigm of "faith," "religion," or "love." This happens when one gets lost in their emotions or feelings and puts their belief or misguided understanding of scripture above what the Word teaches.
Though there may be many reasons the truth is rejected, we should never allow rejection to sway our heartfelt duty to share the gospel with everyone we meet. Jesus told us in John 15:18 that the world will hate us, but not to be discouraged.
Jesus also explained to the disciples why they would not always see the fruit of their labor as they sowed the seed of truth among the people.
Matthew 3:18-23
“Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”
We must not become discouraged when others do not receive the Good News; rather, as we're told in Matthew 10:14, "If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet."
Remember that we serve the Lord because He calls us to, and we are obedient to His call, whether His word is received or rejected.
SERMON FROM LAST SUNDAY
NEXT SUNDAY'S SERMON
Serving the Lord Part 2: Serving Through Your Faith
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Our four baptisms last Sunday turned into five, praise God!! Congratulations to Nicholas, Jessica, Skylynn, Andy, and Laylah!
READ THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
With Hebrew Scholar Chad Bird from 1517, a nonprofit organization that exists to declare and defend the Good News that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ alone.
OTHER NOTES
Pastor Bruce's latest book on faith, Drowning in Milk: A Guide to Spiritual Growth, is available at the church, along with his other books, Heaven & Hell and The Minister's Manual, on the vestibule table just outside the sanctuary. All of his books are also available on Amazon.
Our new online giving system makes supporting our church easy. The new system allows you to give a one-time, weekly, or monthly donation of any amount. See for yourself at https://www.ps127.org/tithes-offerings. Please support our ministry by giving.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Kari Sidel
Unspoken for cancer
For our country
BIRTHDAYS
No February Birthdays!
If you need anything added, such as an announcement, birthday or anniversary, or prayer request, send it by email to Contact@PS127.org.
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