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Sep 13
15

Household Worship Guide – 09/15/13

This can be downloaded as a PDF by logging into the CITY.

Prayer

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

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

  • “Psalm 147:5, Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.”  Hebrews 4:13, and no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account. These texts say that God’s understanding is limitless, that His knowledge is perfect, and there isn’t a creature anywhere in the universe that isn’t plainly visible to His sight. Nothing is shut before the eyes of God. That is what is called divine omniscience, one of the attributes of God. An attribute, as I have said before, is something which God has declared to be true about himself ” (A.W. Tozer, Attributes of God).

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)

  • Reformed Baptist Church of Riverside, Riverside CA – Website

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

  • Country: Argentina
    Population: 40,655,000
    Religion: Catholic: 87{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Evangelical 9{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, 4{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9} Other
    HeartCry Missionary:  Nicolas Serrano – click here to learn more about this missionary.Overview: “The Argentine Republic, commonly known as Argentina, is located in southeastern South America and is the second largest country on the continent. Its economy is aided by an abundance of natural resources, which, at the beginning of the 20th century, enabled it to become one of the most prosperous countries in South America. Over the past 100 years, Argentina has experienced severe economic instability and has gone from being one of the richest countries in the world to being entrenched in repeated recessions. While the government has sought to manipulate the public statistics in order to hide the extent of the economy’s problems, it is estimated privately that the actual annual inflation rate over the past decade is approximately 30 percent. Since the severe economic crash from 1999 to 2002, the nation’s income disparity has been reversed slightly, but there is still a considerable income inequality. This is demonstrated by the 500,000 people who are currently living in the slums of the capital city of Buenos Aires.

    Catholicism is by far the dominant religion in Argentina and has had a powerful influence on the country’s affairs since its foundation. However, of the 87 percent who identify themselves with the Catholic Church, it is estimated that less than 20 percent actually practice their religion. The nation is largely influenced by postmodern and agnostic beliefs and is increasingly moving toward secular practice and ideology. Evangelicalism has seen an increase recently, and since 1980, the number of people who profess to be Evangelical has increased from just 1 million to over 3 million. The greatest needs among the Evangelicals in Argentina are sound biblical instruction and biblical training of men for the ministry.”

    *Information taken from HeartCryMissionary.com

 “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)

  • See 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 City Council  – Linda Krupa
  • State: Secretary of State  – Debra Bowen
  • Nation: Congressman  – Raul Ruiz

“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).

_______________________________________________
Worship through Song

Song of the Month  

  • I encourage you to incorporate musical worship in some way within your household worship time. This is also a great way to prepare for worship Sunday worship by learning the songs we sing.
  • “O Great God” by Sovereign Grace Music can be purchased and downloaded here.

_______________________________________________

Preparing for the Lord’s Day

Our Sermon Text For This Week Is: Galatians 1:13-24

  • “ For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. 14 And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, 16 was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone; 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. 20 (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!) 21 Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. 22 And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they glorified God because of me.”

________________________________________________

Family Scripture Reading
The scriptures follow the reading plan for families outlined in Emmaus’ Passages booklet.

  • Sunday – 2 Sam. 11, 2 Cor. 5
  • Monday – 2 Sam. 12, 2 Cor. 5
  • Tuesday – 2 Sam. 13, 2 Cor. 6
  • Wednesday – 2 Sam. 14, 2 Cor. 7
  • Thursday – 2 Sam. 15, 2 Cor. 8
  • Friday – 2 Sam. 16, 2 Cor. 9
  • Saturday – 2 Sam. 17, 2 Cor. 20

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Catechism – Instruction of God’s Word

Doctrinal Standard – Baptist Catechism #95 (Compare WSC #88)

  • Q. What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption?
    A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption are His ordinances, especially the Word, Baptism, the Lord’s Supper and Prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42, ESV.)

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Proverbs 2
  • Support Passages: Matthew 28:18-20; Romans 10:17; Ephesians 5:15-20; Colossians 3:12-17
  • Bible Story: Acts 2:41-47

Thoughts

  • “Imagine a father who is away on a trip. He has been wanting to buy a horse for his son. While he is away, the father sees the perfect horse for his son. So he buys it for him. The father has paid the full price for the horse. Nothing more needs to be done to make the horse the boy’s horse. But because the boy is at home, in a different state, he cannot enjoy the benefits of having a horse. So the father hires a truck and a trailer as the way to bring the horse to the boy. Now the boy can enjoy all the benefits of having the horse that his father bought for him.The Lord Jesus paid fully to redeem His people when He died on the cross. Nothing more needs to be done to redeem them. But the benefits of being redeemed need to be brought to God’s people. The Lord Jesus has chosen ways to bring those benefits to us. This answer lists those ways. The Word of God, the (ordinances) (baptism and the Lord’s Supper), and prayer are the ‘ordinary, external ways Christ has chosen to bring us the benefits of redemption.’ As we read and hear God’s Word, as we pray, and as we receive baptism and communion, we enjoy the benefits of the redemption Christ bought for us.

    The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, giving him instructions about prayer, worship, and preaching and teaching God’s Word. He told him that using these things would result in salvation for Timothy and for those whom he ministered. Read 1 Timothy 4:15-16.” [1]

Discussion Questions

  • What does redemption mean?
  • What are the means by which Christ communicates the benefits of redemption?
  • Why is it important for Christians to read the Word of God?
  • Why is it important that Christians be baptized and attend baptisms?
  • Why is it important for Christians to participate in the Lord’s Supper (communion)?
  • Why should Christians be in continual prayer?

[1] Meade, Starr (2000). Training Heart, Teaching Minds. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA; P&R Publishing Company.

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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Baptist Catechism, Benefits of Redemption, Family Worship, Lord's Prayer, Starr Meade, Training Hearts Teaching Minds, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, Acts 2, Proverbs 2, Posted by Phil. No Comments

Sep 13
8

Household Worship Guide – 09/08/13

Under “Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”, we added a section to pray for the ministry of other churches.

This can be downloaded as a PDF by logging into the CITY.

Prayer

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

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

  • God’s omnipotence. “Omni meaning ‘all’ and potent, meaning ‘able to do and to have power.’ And so omnipotent means ‘able to do all and to have all power.’ It means having all the potency there is. ” (A.W. Tozer, Attributes of God). “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)
  • 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 Other Churches Doing the Will of Lord (Matt. 28:18-20)

  • Olive Branch Ministries Church,  San Jacinto – Website

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

  • COUNTRY: Cuba
    DESCRIPTION: In 2008, Fidel Castro turned leadership over to his brother, General Raul Castro, and the country is now run by General Castro and a team of Communist Party loyalists. Raul is slowly implementing economic reforms, and Cuba’s relationship with the United States appears to be improving. The Cuban government seeks to control most aspects of Cuban life through the Communist Party, government bureaucracy and state security. The Ministry of Interior is the principal organ of state security and control.Category: Restricted Nation
    Religion: Christian 56.5.{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Non-Religious 25.0{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}
    Ideology: Communism
    Head of State: President General Raul Castro RuzThe constitution guarantees freedom of religion, but religious groups experience interference, harassment and discrimination, and their leaders are sometimes imprisoned. Cuba considers church growth a threat to regime stability. The Religious Affairs Office, an arm of the Cuban Communist Party, actively tries to control churches through surveillance, infiltration and harassment of church leaders. Pastors understand that their congregations are infiltrated and monitored by government agents. Cuban law prohibits the unauthorized assembly of more than 12 people. Many Christians meet in unregistered house churches even though they have been strictly regulated since 2005. VOM is involved in repairing house churches and supporting evangelistic teams.

    *Information taken from The Voice of the Martyrs, Persecution.com

“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)

  • See 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: San Jacinto Mayor Pro Tem – Alonso Ledezma
  • State: Attorney General  – Kamala Harris
  • Nation: Secretary of State  – 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).

_______________________________________________

Worship through Song

Song of the Month  

  • I encourage you to incorporate musical worship in some way within your household worship time. This is also a great way to prepare for worship Sunday worship by learning the songs we sing.
  • “O Great God” by Sovereign Grace Music can be purchased and downloaded here.

_______________________________________________

Preparing for the Lord’s Day

Our Sermon Text For This Week Is: Galatians 1:10-24

  • For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. 11 For I would have you know, brothers, that the gospel that was preached by me is not man’s gospel. 12 For I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. 13 For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it. 14 And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers. 15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace, 16 was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone; 17 nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus. 18 Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days. 19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. 20 (In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!) 21 Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. 22 And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. 23 They only were hearing it said, “He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” 24 And they glorified God because of me.

________________________________________________

Family Scripture Reading
The scriptures follow the reading plan for families outlined in Emmaus’ Passages booklet.

  • Sunday – 2 Sam. 2, 1 Cor. 13
    Monday – 2 Sam. 3, 1 Cor. 14
    Tuesday – 2 Sam. 4-5, 1 Cor. 15
    Wednesday – 2 Sam. 6, 1 Cor. 16
    Thursday – 2 Sam. 7, 2 Cor. 1
    Friday – 2 Sam. 8-9, 2 Cor. 2
    Saturday – 2 Sam. 10, 2 Cor. 3

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Catechism – Instruction of God’s Word

Doctrinal Standard WSC #87

  • Q. What is repentance unto life?
  • A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace, by which a sinner, being truly aware of his sinfulness, understands the mercy of God in Christ, grieves for and hates his sins, and turns from them to God, fully intending and striving for a new obedience.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil, 17 learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause” (Isaiah 1:16-17, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: II Corinthians 7
  • Support Passages: Psalm 51:5-13, 80:3,7,19; Acts 2:37-38, 5:30-31, 11:18; II Timothy 2:25
  • Bible Story: Luke 15:11-24

Thoughts

  • Below is taken from chapter 15 of the The Baptist Confession of Faith 1689 – Notes by Peter Masters.
  • “15.1 Those of the elect who are converted in riper years [adult life], having lived some time in the state of nature [unsaved], and in this state served various lusts and pleasures, God gives repentance which leads to life, through an effectual call.1 1 Tit 3.2-5.
  • 15.2. Because there is not one person who does good and commits no sin,2 and because the best of men may fall into great sins and provo­cations [to God] through the power and deceitfulness of their own indwelling corruption and the prevalency [superior power] of temptation, God has mercifully provided in the covenant of grace that when believers sin and fall they shall be renewed [restored] through repentance to salvation.3 2 Ecc 7.20. 3 Luke 22.31-32.
  • 15.3. Saving repentance is an evangelical grace4 by which a person who is made to feel, by the Holy Spirit, the manifold evils of his sin, and being given faith in Christ, humbles himself over his sin with godly sorrow, detestation [hatred] of his sin and self-abhorrency [self-disgust or shame].5 In such repentance the person also prays for pardon and strength of grace, and has a purpose and endeavour [a striving aim and desire], by supplies of the Spirit’s power, to walk before God and to ­totally please Him in all things.6 4 Zech 12.10; Acts 11.18. 5 Ezek 36.31; 2 Cor 7.11. 6 Psa 119.6 & 128.
  • 15.4. As repentance is to be continued through the whole course of our lives, on account of the body of death [continuing corruption], and the motions of it, it is therefore every man’s duty to repent of his particular known sins particularly7 [ie: of individual sins known to him, naming them and repenting of them]. 7 Luke 19.8; 1 Tim 1.13-15.
  • 15.5. Such is the provision which God has made through Christ in the covenant of grace for the preservation of believers in the way of salvation, that although even the smallest sin deserves damnation,8 yet there is no sin great enough to bring damnation on those who ­repent.9 This makes the constant preaching of repentance necessary [essential]. 8 Rom 6.23. 9 Isa 1.16-18; 55.7” [1]

Discussion Questions

  • What does it mean to repent?
  • Why is repentance so important in a Christian’s life?
  • Explain how repentance and faith are connected?
  • Where does the ability to repent come from? Explain
  • Discuss the work of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Spirit) in bringing about repentance in a believers life.
  • If you are living an unrepentant life what does it reveal about your heart?
  • What steps should be taken to bring about heart transformation?

[1] Masters, Peter (1982). The Baptist Confession of Faith 1689 – Notes by Peter Masters. Ashland, Ohio, USA; BookMasters, Inc.

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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Family Worship, London Baptist Confession of Faith 1689, Peter Masters, Voice of the Martyrs, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, 2 Corinthians 7, Isaiah 1, Luke 15, Posted by Phil. No Comments

Sep 13
1

Household Worship Guide – 09/01/13

I added another component that has already been available to you in our Passages scripture reading guide. Under “Family Scripture Reading” I placed the scriptures to read each day as a family.

For a PDF version log into the CITY.

Prayer

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

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

  • “Faithfulness is that in God which guarantees that He will never be or act inconsistent with Himself. You can put that down as an axiom. It is good for you now and good for you when you’re dying. It will be good to remember as you rise from the dead and good for all the eons and millenniums to come. God will never cease to be what He is and who He is. Everything God says or does must be in accord with his faithfulness. He will always be true to Himself, to His works and to His creation” (A.W. Tozer, Attributes of God).

    “He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

  • 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 Gospel To Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38)

  • COUNTRY: Syria
    DESCRIPTION: Syria is home to diverse ethnic and religious groups, including Kurds, Armenians, Assyrians, Christians, Druze, Alawites, Shiites and Sunnis. It is a secular state, but Islam is recognized as the religion of the majority, and Shariah is the source of all legislation. The constitution requires that the president be a Muslim. Since civil war erupted in March 2011, an estimated 9,000 people have been killed.Category: Restricted Nation
    Religion: Muslim 90.0{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Christian 6.3{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}
    Ideology: Islam
    Head of State: President Bashar al-Asad

    In 2012, militants engaged in Syria’s civil war displaced whole Christian neighborhoods in some regions, taking over homes and confiscating personal property. Prior to the war, traditional Christian minority groups had relative freedom within the larger Islamic society, but discrimination is rising, and our partners report that acts of violence during the war have specifically targeted Christians and Christian communities. Christian evangelism is not welcome, and missionaries are not allowed in the country. The government closely monitors all activities deemed a threat to communal harmony, and most churches in Syria are hesitant to evangelize Muslims. Believers who meet for fellowship outside designated places of worship risk having their apartments appropriated by the government. Occasionally, traditional churches that feel threatened by evangelism work with Muslims to carry out persecution against those who evangelize. VOM works with partners to bring Bibles into the country.

    *Information taken from The Voice of the Martyrs, Persecution.com

“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)

  • See the CITY for 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: Mayor Pro Tem – Larry Smith:
  • State: Senator  – Bill Emmerson
  • Nation: Speaker of the House of Representatives – John Boehner

“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).

_______________________________________________

Worship through Song

Song of the Month  

  • I encourage you to incorporate musical worship in some way within your household worship time. This is also a great way to prepare for worship Sunday worship by learning the songs we sing.
  • “O Great God” by Sovereign Grace Music can be purchased and downloaded here.

_______________________________________________

Preparing for the Lord’s Day

Our Sermon Text For This Week Is: Galatians 1:6-9

  • “6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.”

________________________________________________

Family Scripture Reading
The scriptures follow the reading plan for families outlined in Emmaus’ Passages booklet.

  • Sunday – 1 Sam. 25, 1 Cor. 6
    Monday – 1 Sam. 26, 1 Cor. 7
    Tuesday – 1 Sam. 27, 1 Cor. 8
    Wednesday – 1 Sam. 28, 1 Cor. 9
    Thursday – 1 Sam. 29-30, 1 Cor. 10
    Friday – 1 Sam. 31, 1 Cor. 11

_______________________________________________

Catechism – Instruction of God’s Word

Doctrinal Standard WSC #86

  • Q. What is faith in Jesus Christ?
  • A. Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace, by which we receive and rest on Him alone for salvation, as He is offered to us in the gospel.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Hebrews 11
  • Support Passages: Isaiah 43:1-3; Matthew 10:34-39; Romans 8:18-39; Revelation 2:1-3:22
  • Bible Story: II Corinthians 11:23-28

Thoughts

  • “The Protestant Reformers recognized that biblical faith has three essential aspects: notitia,assensus, and fiducia.
    Notitia. Notitia refers to the content of faith, or those things that we believe. We place our faith in something, or more appropriately, someone. In order to believe, we must know something about that someone, who is the Lord Jesus Christ.
    Assensus. Assensus is our conviction that the content of our faith is true. You can know about the Christian faith and yet believe that it is not true. Genuine faith says that the content — the notitiataught by Holy Scripture — is true.
    Fiducia. Fiducia refers to personal trust and reliance. Knowing and believing the content of the Christian faith is not enough, for even demons can do that (James 2:19). Faith is only effectual if, knowing about and assenting to the claims of Jesus, one personally trusts in Him alone for salvation.” [1]
  • Below is taken from chapter 14 of the London Baptist Confession of Faith 1689 – Notes by Peter Masters.
  • “14.1. The grace of faith by which the elect are enabled to believe, so that their souls are saved, is the work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts,1 and is ordinarily [normally] brought into being by the ministry of the Word.2 It is also increased and strengthened by the work of the Spirit through the ministry of the Word, and also by the administration of baptism and the Lord’s Supper, prayer, and other means appointed by God.3 1 2 Cor 4.13; Eph 2.8. 2 Rom 10.14-17. 3 Luke 17.5; 1 Pet 2.2; Acts 20.32.
  • 14.2. By this faith a Christian believes to be true whatever is revealed in the Word because this Word has the authority of God Himself.4 [Saving faith causes a person to believe all the Bible to be the Word of God – instinctively and completely.] Also, by this saving faith, a Christian apprehends [sees] an excellency in the Word which is higher than in all other writings and everything else in the world,5 because the Word shows forth the glory of God, revealing His attributes, showing the excellency of Christ’s nature and offices, and also the power and fulness of the Holy Spirit in His workings and operations.
  • – So the Christian is enabled to cast his soul upon [fully trust] the Truth he has believed,6 and to see and respond to the different kinds of teaching which different passages of Scripture contain. Saving faith equips him to perceive and obey the commands,7 hear the threatenings with fear and respect,8 and to embrace the promises of God for this life and the life to come.9
  • – But the first and most important acts of saving faith are those ­directly to do with Christ, when the soul accepts, receives, and rests upon Him alone for justification, sanctification and eternal life, by ­virtue of the covenant of grace.10 4 Acts 24.14. 5 Psa 19.7-10; 119.72. 6 2 Tim 1.12. 7 John 15.14. 8 Isa 66.2. 9 Heb 11.13. 10 John 1.12; Acts 16.31; Gal 2.20; Acts 15.11.
  • 14.3. This faith, although it differs in degree, and may be weak or strong,11 even at its very weakest is in an entirely different class and has a different nature (like other aspects of saving grace) from the kind of faith and common grace which is possessed by temporary believers.12 Therefore, though it may be frequently assailed [attacked] and weakened, it gets the victory,13 growing up in many to the attainment of a full assurance through Christ,14 Who is both the ­author and finisher of our faith.15 11 Heb 5.13-14; Matt 6.30; Rom 4.19-20. 12 2 Pet 1.1. 13 Eph 6.16; 1 John 5.4-5.” 14 Heb 6.11-12; Col 2.2. 15 Heb 12.2.” [2]

Discussion Questions

  • What does it mean to have faith in Jesus Christ?
  • What does it mean to receive him for salvation?
  • What does it mean to rest on him alone for salvation?
  • Why is it important that our faith, rest, and salvation is according to what was “offered to us in the gospel?”
  • Have you placed your faith and rest alone in Christ for your salvation?
  • What evidence in your life might be a testimony to this?

[1] From Ligonier Ministries, the teaching fellowship of R.C. Sproul. All rights reserved. Website: www.ligonier.org | Phone: 1-800-435-4343

[2] Masters, Peter (1982). The Baptist Confession of Faith 1689 – Notes by Peter Masters. Ashland, Ohio, USA; BookMasters, Inc.

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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Faith, Family Worship, Lord's Prayer, R.C Sproul, The Baptist Confession of Faith 1689 – Notes by Peter Masters, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, 2 Corinthians 11, Hebrews 11, Matthew 6, Posted by Phil. No Comments

Aug 13
25

Household Worship Guide – 8/25

This guide can be downloaded as a PDF by logging into the CITY.

Prayer

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

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

  • Praise God for His eternalness
    “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” (Psalm 90:1–2, ESV)

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 Gospel To Spread Among All Peoples (Matt. 9:37-38)

  • COUNTRY: Mauritania
    DESCRIPTION: Mauritania is one of the world’s poorest countries and one of the most restricted. Freedom of religion is nonexistent, and Sunni Islam has dominated for more than 1,000 years. Social and family matters are judged under Shariah, or Islamic, law. A bloodless coup in August 2008 led to democratic elections and a new president in 2009.

    Category: Restricted Nation
    Religion: Muslim 99.8{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Christian 0.3{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}
    Ideology: Islam
    Head of State: President Mohamed Ould AbdelAzizIslam is the constitutionally declared religion of the people and of the states. The government prohibits the distribution of non-Islamic religious materials and the evangelism of Muslims. It is illegal for citizens to enter non-Muslim households, and anyone who confesses Christ faces the death penalty. There is tremendous social pressure against anyone who converts. Last year, VOM helped build a well to support persecuted believers.*Information taken from The Voice of the Martyrs, Persecution.com

“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)

  • See the CITY for a list of families to pray for this week.


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: San Jacinto Mayor – Mark Bartel
  • State: Majority Leader – Senator Ellen M. Corbett
  • Nation: Vice President – Joe Biden

“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).

_______________________________________________

Worship through Song

Song of the Month  

  • The song “Speak, O Lord” by Keith & Kristyn Getty is one of the songs we sing during the service on the Lord’s Day. Mike provided a link to the specific version he uses to lead us into worship. I would encourage you to begin to incorporate musical worship in some way within your household worship time.
  • Click here to purchase and download from iTunes.

_______________________________________________

Preparing for the Lord’s Day

Our Sermon Text For This Week Is: Galatians 1:1-9

  • “Paul, an apostle—not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead— 2 and all the brothers who are with me, To the churches of Galatia: 3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our sins to deliver us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be the glory forever and ever. Amen. 6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. 9 As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.”

_______________________________________________
Catechism – Instruction of God’s Word

Doctrinal Standard – Baptist Catechism #95 (Compare WSC #88)

  • Q. What are the outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption?
  • A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption are His ordinances, especially the Word, Baptism, the Lord’s Supper and Prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for salvation.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42, ESV.)

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Proverbs 2
  • Support Passages: Matthew 28:18-20; Romans 10:17; Ephesians 5:15-20; Colossians 3:12-17
  • Bible Story: Acts 2:41-47

Thoughts

  • “Imagine a father who is away on a trip. He has been wanting to buy a horse for his son. While he is away, the father sees the perfect horse for his son. So he buys it for him. The father has paid the full price for the horse. Nothing more needs to be done to make the horse the boy’s horse. But because the boy is at home, in a different state, he cannot enjoy the benefits of having a horse. So the father hires a truck and a trailer as the way to bring the horse to the boy. Now the boy can enjoy all the benefits of having the horse that his father bought for him.The Lord Jesus paid fully to redeem His people when He died on the cross. Nothing more needs to be done to redeem them. But the benefits of being redeemed need to be brought to God’s people. The Lord Jesus has chosen ways to bring those benefits to us. This answer lists those ways. The Word of God, the (ordinances) (baptism and the Lord’s Supper), and prayer are the ‘ordinary, external ways Christ has chosen to bring us the benefits of redemption.’ As we read and hear God’s Word, as we pray, and as we receive baptism and communion, we enjoy the benefits of the redemption Christ bought for us.The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy, giving him instructions about prayer, worship, and preaching and teaching God’s Word. He told him that using these things would result in salvation for Timothy and for those whom he ministered. Read 1 Timothy 4:15-16.” [1]

Discussion Questions

  • What does redemption mean?
  • What are the means by which Christ communicates the benefits of redemption?
  • Why is it important for Christians to read the Word of God?
  • Why is it important that Christians be baptized and attend baptisms?
  • Why is it important for Christians to participate in the Lord’s Supper (communion)?
  • Why should Christians be in continual prayer?

[1] Meade, Starr (2000). Training Heart, Teaching Minds. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA; P&R Publishing Company.

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Aug 13
19

Household Worship Guide – 8/18

Below you will find the “household worship guide” that I presented yesterday as a means to equip fathers and mothers with resources to instruct and guide their children in the Lord. In addition, we intentionally chose the title “household worship” because it is intended to be used by all of Emmaus, not just those with children, to worship God throughout the week. If you were unable to attend Sunday, I would encourage you to listen to the sermon to better understand the goal of this resource.

Blessings,

Phil

 

Prayer

“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

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

  • Praise God for His sovereignty. “To say that God is Sovereign is to say that He is supreme over all things, that there is no one above Him, that He is absolute Lord over creation. It is to say that His Lordship over creation means that there is nothing out of His control, nothing that God hasn’t seen and planned. It means that even the wrath of man must ultimately praise God and the remainder of wrath God will restrain (Psalm 76:10). It means that every creature on earth, in heaven and in hell must ultimately bow the knee and confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:10)” (A.W. Tozer, Attributes of God).
  •  “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done? declares the Lord. Behold, like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel” Jeremiah 18:6 (ESV).

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

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

  • Country: Morocco
    Description: In March 2011, King Mohammed VI was forced to enact reforms and agree to revise the constitution in response to popular protests, but authority remains in the hands of the monarch. A moderate Islamist party won the majority of the parliamentary seats, becoming the first Islamist party to lead the government. The Moroccan government is committed to the preservation of Sunni Islam as the religion of all Moroccans.Category: Restricted Nation
    Religion: Muslim 99.9{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}, Christian 0.1{e0b72a53c242df1424785628340537005f8b2ebeecfbb0205a95286f7b4c8fc9}
    Ideology: Islam
    Head of State: King Mohamed VI

    All Christian activity is carefully monitored by the government. Although talking about Christ is legal, “proselytism” and converting from Islam to Christianity are illegal. Muslims who convert to Christianity may face severe punishment. They endure ostracism from their families, loss of employment and imprisonment for their faith. Anti-Christian sentiment is common in the media. Since March 2010, Morocco has deported at least 135 foreign Christians for proselytism. The government justified the deportations by claiming the Christians posed a threat to the state. VOM has distributed food, clothing and school supplies to children of families undergoing persecution in Morocco.

    *Information taken from The Voice of the Martyrs, Persecution.com

“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)

  • See the CITY for a list of families to pray for this week.

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 Mayor – Robert Youssef
  • State: Governor – Jerry Brown
  • Nation: President – Barack Obama

“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).

_______________________________________________

Worship through Song

Song of the Month Encouraged To Be Used In Family Worship

  • The song “Speak, O Lord” by Keith & Kristyn Getty is one of the songs we sing during the service on the Lord’s Day. Mike provided a link to the specific version he uses to lead us into worship. I would encourage you to begin to incorporate musical worship in some way within your household worship time.
  • Click here to purchase and download from iTunes.

_______________________________________________

Preparing For the Lord’s Day

Our Sermon Text For This Week Is:

  • This Sunday’s sermon will be topical and will not focus on one particular scriptural text.

_______________________________________________

Catechism – Instruction of God’s Word

Doctrinal Standard WSC #84

  • Q. What does every sin deserve?
  • A. Every sin deserves God’s anger and curse, both in this life and in the life to come.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the Book of the Law, and do them” (Galatians 3:10, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Ephesians 5:3–7
  • Support Passages: Ephesians 5:6; Galatians 3:10; Lamentations 3:39; Matthew 25:41
  • Bible Story: Revelation 20:11-15

Thoughts

  • Doctrinal standard 83 explains that the Bible teaches us that not all sins are equally evil.
  • “In the eyes of God some sins in themselves are more evil than others, and some are more evil because of the harm that results from them” (WSC #81). While not every sin is equally evil, all sin is equally punishable by death. Yes, murder is more heinous than a single lie but both transgress the Law of God requiring the righteous punishment of death. James explains this truth eloquently in chapter two verse ten, “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” In order to gain acceptance before God apart from Christ one would have to live obediently to all of the Law. We know this is an impossible feat. James explains that if we fail in even one area we are guilty of all the Law. This is why some sin can be more evil than others but all deserving the same curse.

Discussion Questions

  • What does every single sin deserve?
  • Last week’s catechism asks: Are all sins equally evil? The answer, in the eyes of God some sins in themselves are more evil than others, and some are more evil because of the harm that results from them. Discuss how these two doctrinal standards complement each other.
  • Do you think it is fair that the smallest infraction of God’s law requires death? Explain.
  • What would it reveal about God if he deemed “minor” sins acceptable?
  • The fact that even the “smallest” of sins require death, who must we depend on for salvation?
  • Explain what it means to depend on Jesus for Salvation.
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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Family Worship, Household Worship, Lord's Prayer, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, Ephesians 5, Galatians 3, Revelation 20, Posted by Phil. No Comments

Aug 13
11

This Weeks Catechism – 8/11

Doctrinal Standard WSC #83

  • Q. Are all sins equally evil?
  • A. In the eyes of God some sins in themselves are more evil than others, and some are more evil because of the harm that results from them.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin”  (John 19:11, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Luke 12:35-48
  • Support Passages: Ezekiel 8:6,13,15; 1 John 5:16; Psalms 78:17,32,56
  • Bible Story: 1 Samuel 2:12-26

Thoughts

  • “Sins intended against God are more evil than sins intended against other humans beings. Some sins against people are more evil than other sins against people. A sin against another is more evil depending on how much harm it does to the person. In the Ten Commandments, the commandments that forbid us to sin against others go in order of forbidding the most harm (you shall not murder) to the least harm (you shall not covet). It is more evil to take a man’s life than to harm his marriage. It is more evil to harm a man’s marriage than to steal his property. Read proverbs 6:30-35.
  • Another thing that makes some sins more evil than other sins is the position of the person committing the sin. God has made some people leaders to others. People look up to them as leaders and watch their example. When people in leadership positions sin, others may follow them. People see leaders doing something that God has forbidden and think there is nothing wrong with it since, after all, this leader is doing it. Parents, teachers, church leaders, and others in positions of authority must be especially careful not to set a harmful example. Read James 3:1.
  • Growing up in a Christian home is a great privilege. It gives you many advantages that other people do not have. You grow up knowing who God is and what He requires of you. You grow up learning the gospel and knowing that God has provided a Savior so you may be justified by faith. Growing up in a Christian home also carries great responsibilities. The more you know about who God is and what He wants, the less excuse you have for sinning. The Bible teaches that those who fully know what they should do and refuse to do it will be punished much more severely than those who do not have such knowledge. Read Luke 12:47-48[1]

Discussion Questions

  • Are sins all equally evil? Explain.
  • Discuss various sins and determine which one might be more evil than others.
  • Because there are different degrees of sin does it mean that the “lesser” sins are ok? Explain.
  • What is the punishment of all sin no matter the severity?
  • What is the only rescue from any type of sin? Explain

[1] Meade, Starr (2000). Training Heart, Teaching Minds. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA; P&R Publishing Company.

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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Punishment, Sin, Starr Meade, Training Hearts Teaching Minds, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, 1 Samuel 2, John 19, Luke 12, Posted by Phil. No Comments

Aug 13
5

This Week’s Catechism – 8/4

Doctrinal Standard WSC #83

  • Q. Are all sins equally evil?
  • A. In the eyes of God some sins in themselves are more evil than others, and some are more evil because of the harm that results from them.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “Jesus answered him, “You would have no authority over me at all unless it had been given you from above. Therefore he who delivered me over to you has the greater sin”  (John 19:11, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Luke 12:35-48
  • Support Passages: Ezekiel 8:6,13,15; 1 John 5:16; Psalms 78:17,32,56
  • Bible Story: 1 Samuel 2:12-26

Thoughts

  • “Sins intended against God are more evil than sins intended against other humans beings. Some sins against people are more evil than other sings against people. A sin against another is more evil depending on how much harm it does to the person. In the Ten Commandments, the commandments that forbid us to sin against others go in order of forbidding the most harm (you shall not murder) to the least harm (you shall not covet). It is more evil to take a man’s life than to harm his marriage. It is more evil to harm a man’s marriage than to steal his property. Read proverbs 6:30-35.
  • Another thing that makes some sins more evil than other sins is the position of the person committing the sin. God has made some people leaders to others. People look up to them as leaders and watch their example. When people in leadership positions sin, others may follow them. People see leaders doing something that God has forbidden and think there is nothing wrong with it since, after all, this leader is doing it. Parents, teachers, church leaders, and others in positions of authority must be especially careful not to set a harmful example. Read James 3:1.
  • Growing up in a Christian home is a great privilege. It gives you many advantages that other people do not have. You grow up knowing who God is and what He requires of you. You grow up learning the gospel and knowing that God has provided a Savior so you may be justified by faith. Growing up in a Christian home also carries great responsibilities. The more you know about who God is and what He wants, the less excuse you have for sinning. The Bible teaches that those who fully know what they should do and refuse to do it will be punished much more severely than those who do not have such knowledge. Read Luke 12:47-48[1]

Discussion Questions

  • Are sins all equally evil? Explain
  • Examine our legal system or the different types of punishments within your home. Are all sins or crimes punished the same way? Does this reveal to us something about God’s punishments?
  • Discuss various sins and determine which one might be more evil than others.
  • Because there are different degrees of sin does it mean that the “lesser” sins are ok? Explain.
  •  What is the punishment of all sin no matter the severity?
  • What is the only rescue from any type of sin? Explain

[1] Meade, Starr (2000). Training Heart, Teaching Minds. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA; P&R Publishing Company.

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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Sin, Training Hearts Teaching Minds, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, 1 Samuel 2, John 19, Luke 12, Posted by Phil. No Comments

Jul 13
29

This Week’s Catechism – 7/28

Doctrinal Standard WSC #79 & 81

  • Q. What is the tenth commandment?
  • A. The tenth commandment is: You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.
  • What does the tenth commandment forbid?
  • The tenth commandment forbids any dissatisfaction with what belongs to us, envy or grief at the success of others, and all improper desire for anything that belongs to someone else.

Memory Verse(s)

  • “Nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer” (1 Corinthians 10:10, ESV).

Scripture

  • Study Passage: Psalm 112
  • Support Passages: Exodus 20:17; Deuteronomy 5:21; 1Kings 21:4; Esther 5:13; 1 Corinthians 10:10; Galatians 5:26; James 3:14,16; Romans 7:7,8; Romans 13:9;
  • Bible Story: Numbers 11:1-15,31-34

Thoughts

  • “God requires us to be content with what we have. He is angry when we covet what He has not given us. God had set the Israelites free from slavery in Egypt. He led them to the land He had promised to give them. There were no grocery stores along the way where the many Israelites could buy food. They would have starved to death, but God provided for them. He caused bread to fall out of heaven for them. It was called manna. It would fall in the night and every morning when the Israelites got up, there was fresh manna on the ground. All they had to do was to go out with baskets and gather it.
  • From the description the Bible gives of the manna, it must have been very tasty. You would think the Israelites would have thanked God. Out in the middle of nowhere, He had provided food for so many people. However, the Israelites were sinners like we are. They were thankful enough at first, but they became dissatisfied. Day after day, the same old food, they complained. Read what they said in Numbers 11:4-6. God sent quail, birds that can be eaten, to the Israelites’ camp. Thousands of them flew very low over the camp, making it easy for the Israelites to catch them for food. God was angry with the Israelites, though, because of their dissatisfaction over the manna. Read verses 33 and 34 to see what happened because of God’s anger.” [1]

Discussion Questions

  • What is the Tenth Commandment?
  • What does the Tenth Commandment forbid?
  • What does it mean to covet something?
  • What does covetousness reveal about our heart towards God?
  • What are specific heart changes that need to be made to overcome covetousness?

[1] Meade, Starr (2000). Training Heart, Teaching Minds. Phillipsburg, New Jersey, USA; P&R Publishing Company.

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Posted in Devotional Thoughts, Covetousness, Moral Law, Ten Commandments, Tenth Commandment, Training Hearts Teaching Minds, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Family Devotional Guidelines, Phil Anady, 1 Corinthians 10, Numbers 11, Psalm 112, Posted by Phil. No Comments

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

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