Household Worship Guide – 12/14/14

Prayer

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.

Address God and Praise Him for Who He Is (Matthew 6:11)

  • The Names of God: El Elohe Yisrael
  • Meaning: God, the God Most High
  • Genesis 33:20; Exodus 5:1; Psalm 68:8; Psalm 106:48

Thank God for All That He Has Provided (Ephesians 5:20)

Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Pray For the Ministry of Other Churches (Matt. 28:18-20)

  • Cornerstone, Hemet CA   – Website

Pray For the Gospel to Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38)

  • Country: Egypt
  • Population: 85,294,000
  • Religion: Muslims: 87{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Orthodox: 12{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Evangelical: Less than 1{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}
  • Unreached People Groups: 22
  • Click here for information about Egypt and how to prayer for this country.
  • Heart Cry Missionary Society 

Give us this day our daily bread

Pray For Yours and Your Family’s Needs (Matthew 6:11)

Pray For One Another (James 5:16)

  • Log into the CITY for a list of families to pray for.

Pray For Those Who Feed, Lead, And Care For The Flock (Col. 4:3; 2 Thess. 3:1)

  • Elders: Joe Anady, Steve Bovee, Kris Vanderschuit
  • Deacons: Dave Anady, Mike Thezier

Pray For Kings And Those In Authority (1 Timothy 2:2)

  • Local: Hemet & San Jacinto City Mayor – Linda Krupa, Alonso Ledezma
  • State: Governor:  Jerry Brown
  • Nation: Vice President & Secretary of State  -Joe Biden, John Kerry

Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.

Ask Forgiveness From God And Others. Forgive Those Who Sinned Against You. (1 John 1:9)

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

Pray That God Would Strengthen Us From Giving Into Temptation (James 1:12-17).

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Worship through Song

Sunday Worship Set 

All the songs are linked to iTunes or you can listen to them for free on other sites.

  • Will update

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Preparing for the Lords Day

Our Sermon Text for This Sunday: John 3:31-36

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Catechism  Instruction of Gods Worship

Doctrinal Standard BC #44

  • Q.What is the duty which God requires of man?
  • A. The duty which God requires of man, is obedience to His revealed will.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “And Samuel said, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he has also rejected you from being king” (1 Samuel 15:22b–23a, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Luke 11:27-28
  • Support Passages: John 3:36, 14:15, I John 2:3-4, Acts 5:29, Romans 13:1-7, II Thessalonians 1:6-10, Hebrews 13:17
  • Bible Story: I Samuel 15

Thoughts

  • When teaching our child about the importance of obeying God’s Law we must be careful not error in teaching moralism instead of biblical Christianity. To understand the difference between the two we must understand the difference between the Law and Gospel and how they relate to one another in the life of an individual.
  • There are three uses of the Law of God: the civil, pedagogical, and normative use. We will briefly discuss the pedagogical and normative use to better understanding how it plays a part in the life of a believer.
  • The catechism states that God requires man to obey his will (law) but what we also understand is that scripture teaches that all mankind is unable to keep the commands of the Lord.  Therefore God’s Law has a “pedagogical use (usus elenchticus sive paedagogicus), it shows people their sin and points them to mercy and grace outside of themselves” (Lems). While God’s law revels his will and standards for mankind it also brings individuals to the realization that they are in need of the gospel. What man is unable to do according to the Law, Christ did in their place by living a perfect life to the Law and paying the ransom for their sins by dying on the cross. God’s Law and the Gospel of Jesus Christ works together in the life of an individual to bring about saving faith.
  • Many people have a limited view of the Law of God and believe that it’s only purpose is to point people to Christ and then should be left alone. This couldn’t be further from the truth. God’s law is perfect and holy. God’s Law has a “normative use (usus didacticus sive normativus). Which means this use of the law is for those who trust in Christ and have been saved through faith apart from works” (Lems) [1]. The law cannot save people because  people are unable to keep it. But God’s law does direct the behaviors of those who are part of the family of God. The law is what helps guide believers in becoming holy as God is holy. The commands of the Lord are an essential part in the sanctification process of a believer.
  • The distinction between moralism and biblical Christianity is rather simple but can often be overlooked if not careful. Moralism teaches that man ought to live a life of good moral character by continually doing what is right. While there is nothing wrong with this statement in itself, the serious error of moralism that it never presents the gospel message. Moralism never addresses the problem that man can never be good enough to be accepted by God. Moralism is a self righteous religion found in many of the religious leaders of Jesus’ day.
  • For a relevant case study on moralism in Christianity refer to a blog post on our website titled Veggie Tales and Moralism.

Discussion Questions

  • What does God require of man?
  • What is the problem with God requiring man to keep his commands?
  • Do you think God knew about this problem before he commanded people to keep his laws? Explain.
  • If God knew that man would not be able to keep his commands why did he give them?
  • How did God fix man’s problem in keeping his laws?
  • Are Christians still commanded to keep God’s law? Explain

[1] Lems, Shane. Three Uses of The Law, Reformedreader.com


Sermon: John 3:22-30: Christ the Center

Reading of God’s Word

“After this Jesus and his disciples went into the Judean countryside, and he remained there with them and was baptizing. John also was baptizing at Aenon [Αἰνών] near Salim [Σαλείμ], because water was plentiful there, and people were coming and being baptized (for John had not yet been put in prison). Now a discussion arose between some of John’s disciples and a Jew over purification. And they came to John and said to him, ‘Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.’ John answered, ‘A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven. You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’ The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease.’” (John 3:22–30, ESV)

Introduction

Ambition is a prized virtue in our day, isn’t it? When someone has a strong desire to achieve something, and when they work hard and exhibit determination in chasing after that goal (whatever it may be), we say, that person is ambitious, and we commend them for it.

But I think we all know that there are really two kinds of ambition – one that is good and to be desired; the other evil and to be avoided.

Some are ambitious in a selfish way. They have drive and determination; they work very hard; but it is evident that their heart is set upon benefiting only themselves.

But others are ambitious in more of a selfless way. They also have drive and determination; they also work hard; but their heart seems to be concerned (to one degree or another), not only with benefiting themselves, but with the good of others.

In reality it may be difficult to distinguish between the two in people. Those with selfish ambition may wear the mask of selflessness for a time; whereas those who are indeed selfless may appear selfish to some – especially if their hard work and determination bring them a degree of success in this world.

But I think it is clear that there are two types of ambition residing within the heart of man – one selfish, the other selfless – one to be avoided, the other to be pursued.

And may I suggest that there is indeed a third kind of ambition? One that is also selfless, but in far better way. Among those who are driven by selfless ambition are those who possess, what we might call, a holy ambition.

What is the difference between the two? you might ask.  Read the rest of Sermon: John 3:22-30: Christ the Center »

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Lesson 30: The Church: The Function of the Church

Reading

Read Know the Truth: Chapter 24: The Church: The Function of the Church (Pages 297-306)

Questions for Discussion

1. What were the principles which underlay the worship of God’s people in the OT? In which ways is worship under the new covenant (testament) different?

2. Discuss the roles of freedom and order/form in worship: what guidance does Scripture offer here?

3. What does fellowship (koinōnia) mean? Examine ways in which fellowship was expressed in the NT churches. What are today’s equivalents?

4. Assess the significance for true fellowship of (a) ‘apostles’ doctrine’ (Acts 2:42), (b) the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 10:11), (c) the Spirit and his gifts (1 Cor. 12 – 13).

5. What is the significance of the Bible’s teaching about spiritual gifts as far as ministry in the church is concerned?

6. List the NT requirements for specialized ministers in the church (cf. 1 Tim. 3:1–13; Titus 1:9–15; Acts 6:3f.).

7. How does the church’s witness serve God’s glory?

8. What does ‘mission’ entail?

9. What are the main biblical bases for Christian social involvement?

10. What does Scripture teach about mission through (a) prayer, (b) financial gifts, (c) personal witness, (d) corporate church witness? Examine in each area the implications for your personal commitment to mission.

Milne, Bruce (2012-11-28). Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief (p. 306). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.

Scripture Reading, Scripture Memory and Catechism

Please visit emmauscf.org/passages to view a suggested Bible reading plan, suggested scripture memory verse, and Emmaus’ catechism. Once there, please select the appropriate week of the year.

Other Resources 

Lesson 30 PDF

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Lesson 29: The Church: The Identity of the Church

Reading

Read Know the Truth: Chapter 23: The Church: The Identity of the Church (Pages 283-297)

Questions for Discussion

1. Examine the relationship between the individual and the community in the experience of salvation in (a) the OT, (b) the NT.

2. Explore the primary biblical images for the church, identifying what each has to teach about (a) God and his attitude to us, (b) the privileges of the church, (c) the responsibilities of the church, (d) the church’s mission in the world.

3. Discuss the value and dangers of the distinction between the visible and invisible church.

4. Take the ‘marks’ of unity, holiness, catholicity and apostolicity and examine with respect to each (a) the biblical basis, (b) the application to your local church and Christian group, (c) the application to the church worldwide.

5. How biblical and relevant are the Reformers’ ‘marks of the church’?

6. Do you agree with the claim that mission belongs to the essence of the church? Justify your answer from Scripture. If so, examine the implications for the present weekly programme of activities at your local church.

Milne, Bruce (2012-11-28). Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief (pp. 296-297). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.

Scripture Reading, Scripture Memory and Catechism

Please visit emmauscf.org/passages to view a suggested Bible reading plan, suggested scripture memory verse, and Emmaus’ catechism. Once there, please select the appropriate week of the year.

Other Resources 

Lesson 29 PDF

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Lesson 28: Review & Application from Part 5

Reading

Briefly review the content of Part 5 (Pages 245-278)

Read Know the Truth: Application (Pages 278-281)

Questions for Discussion

1. What in Part 5 has been most impactful to you?

2. Discuss the points of application made by Milne on Pages 278-281. Which one applies to you the most?

3. Can you think of any other applications that can be drawn from Part 5?

4. What questions do you have about the teaching you have encountered in this section?

Scripture Reading, Scripture Memory and Catechism

Please visit emmauscf.org/passages to view a suggested Bible reading plan, suggested scripture memory verse, and Emmaus’ catechism. Once there, please select the appropriate week of the year.

Other Resources 

Lesson 28 PDF

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Lesson 27: The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit and Christian Growth & Historical Perspective: The Holy Spirit Today

Reading

Read Know the Truth: Chapters 21 & 22: The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit and Christian Growth & Historical Perspective: The Holy Spirit Today  (Pages 261-278)

Questions for Discussion

1. What does ‘sanctification’ mean in both Scripture and common usage? In what ways is sanctification distinguished from justification?

2. What significance does our union with Christ have for sanctification? How would you try to interpret a ‘crisis’ experience of the Holy Spirit? What are the problems associated with the ‘second blessing’ approach to sanctification?

3. According to Scripture, does sanctification in any sense depend on our efforts?

4. What do you understand from scriptural teaching by (a) ‘baptism in the Spirit’, (b) the ‘fullness of the Spirit’?

5. What would you consider the essential marks of increasing sanctification in all Christian lives? Apart from these common elements, how might one expect increasing sanctification to be particularly expressed by a Christian (a) homemaker and mother, (b) student, (c) painter and decorator, (d) teacher, (e) factory employee, (f) civil servant?

6. Can we enjoy a firm certainty that we truly are Christians? Support your answer from Scripture.

7. Consider the role of the Spirit with reference to Scripture. What is the Bible’s function in living the Christian life?

8. Can a truly regenerate Christian be finally lost? How do you interpret the ‘warning passages’ in Hebrews?

Milne, Bruce (2012-11-28). Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief (p. 274). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.

Scripture Reading, Scripture Memory and Catechism

Please visit emmauscf.org/passages to view a suggested Bible reading plan, suggested scripture memory verse, and Emmaus’ catechism. Once there, please select the appropriate week of the year.

Other Resources 

Lesson 27 PDF

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Lesson 26: The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit and Christian Beginnings

Reading

Read Know the Truth: Chapter 20: The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit: The Spirit and Christian Beginnings (Pages 250-261)

Questions for Discussion

1. What does Scripture mean by ‘grace’? Discuss the view that it is the primary term in the Christian’s vocabulary.

2. What do you understand by ‘union with Christ’? Explore its implications for (a) Christian salvation, (b) Christian service, (c) Christian fellowship, (d) Christian discipleship.

3. What is ‘divine election’? What light is thrown on it by the election of Israel? Assess biblically the claims made for (a) foreknowledge as the basis of election, (b) reprobation. What are the implications of election for (a) the Christian’s assurance of salvation, (b) Christian worship, (c) Christian hope for the future?

4. Does the Bible make a distinction between God’s general and effective calling?

5. What does regeneration mean? Must it be consciously experienced? What implications does it carry for our understanding of the work of the Spirit in general and in particular for our evangelism?

6. What are the respective places of faith and works in relation to our justification and to the Christian gospel?

7. What is meant by adoption? What are its implications for (a) the Christian’s thanksgiving, (b) the Christian’s self-image, (c) Christian fellowship, (d) the Christian’s prospects beyond death?

8. Explain as simply and fully as you can what is meant by ‘believing in Christ’. What does repentance mean and what place does it have (a) in the gospel, (b) for Christian living (cf. Rev. 2:5, 16; 3:3, 19)?

Milne, Bruce (2012-11-28). Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief (pp. 260-261). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.

Scripture Reading, Scripture Memory and Catechism

Please visit emmauscf.org/passages to view a suggested Bible reading plan, suggested scripture memory verse, and Emmaus’ catechism. Once there, please select the appropriate week of the year.

Other Resources 

Lesson 26 PDF

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Lesson 25: The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit: The Person of the Spirit & The Spirit of Promise

Reading

Read Know the Truth: Chapters 18 & 19: The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit: The Person of the Spirit & There Spirit of Promise (Pages 245-250)

Questions for Discussion

1. State the biblical evidence for the deity of the Holy Spirit.

2. Explore the implications of the Spirit’s Godhood for (a) the authority of the Bible, (b) the person of Jesus Christ who gives the Spirit, (c) the authenticity of Christian experience.

3. Identify the essential elements of the Spirit’s work in the OT. Show how these are developed in the NT.

4. ‘The Son is at once the bearer and dispenser of the Spirit.’ Does this statement correctly reflect the NT evidence?

5. What implications may be drawn from the fact that the Spirit ministered to Jesus at certain points in his ministry?

6. Examine the biblical passages dealing with the relationship between the work of the Spirit and the work of the Son. What implications does this carry for our experience of the Spirit today?

Milne, Bruce (2012-11-28). Know the Truth: A Handbook of Christian Belief (pp. 246-247, 250). InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.

Scripture Reading, Scripture Memory and Catechism

Please visit emmauscf.org/passages to view a suggested Bible reading plan, suggested scripture memory verse, and Emmaus’ catechism. Once there, please select the appropriate week of the year.

Other Resources 

Lesson 25 PDF

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"Him we proclaim,
warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom,
that we may present everyone mature in Christ."
(Colossians 1:28, ESV)

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