News & Updates https://www.smyrnapres.org Thu, 28 Mar 2024 05:54:26 -0400 http://churchplantmedia.com/ Summary of the General Assembly of the PCA https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/summary-of-the-general-assembly-of-the-pca- https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/summary-of-the-general-assembly-of-the-pca-#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/summary-of-the-general-assembly-of-the-pca- I’m thankful to be Presbyterian. Chiefly we have a rich theological history that proudly proclaims the truth of Scriptures and week by week proclaims the Gospel fully and freely. I am thankful for the connectionalism and collected wisdom that comes from having many at different levels of church government. This makes the deliberations at times painfully inefficient but it frees the leadership from being in the hands of a few. That church government takes place on three levels: Session (local level), Presbyteries (regional level), and General Assembly (national level).

Our denomination just concluded its 45th General Assembly (GA) in Greensboro, NC. I was thankful to be able to attend this year and be a voting commissioner on matters presented before the Assembly. I did have to cut my time at GA a half of day short to get back for funeral service that took place the same week. But I got to be a part of most of the business at GA. The major business was to deliberate on the report from the study committee on the role of women in the Church.

                Last year the GA voted to form a study committee on the role on women serving in the ministry of the church. I was very skeptical of the intentions of those that were seeking such a committee thinking that you do not make a request for a study unless you are not satisfied with the current state of affairs. Seeing this as an open door to begin the process of women’s ordination. But I have to admit that my skepticism was alleviated when I read the report (the entirety of the report can be found online). I thought the study committee did a thorough and fair study of the issues.  Let me tell you some of the highlights and the recommendations that were made.

                -The very best of the report was the committees dealing with the relevant Scripture passages. This demonstrated to me that for us as a denomination the Scriptures alone are the sole authority of faith and practice. This is critical. When we begin to be influenced more from social pressures and/or current studies of the day that is when the church goes astray. But the committee stuck to the Scriptures and seemingly asked the question – what would the Word of God say about this subject? I might have had some slightly difference with some of their interpretations but at least it’s a discussion and debate about the Bible and not things extra-biblical.

                -I thought the committee did a good job in promoting the complementarian role of men and women and not an egalitarian view. God has made men and women very different – and that is a good thing! When those distinct roles are lost the family, the church, and society as a whole are weakened and not strengthened. The committee I though demonstrated and highlighted the full, rich, and robust role that women have in the church. That there is no lack of opportunities to minister and serve. But they did draw the line at ordination as an officer in the church, which is proper since with the office comes authority (1 Tim. 2:12).  The study committee did recommend that churches give women full opportunity to use their gifts and talents as God would have them to be used.

-There were seven recommendations that Assembly adopted from the report. Here is a summary of them:

1) The PCA has a variety of views and ways  in  which  women  may  serve  the  Lord  and  the  church, without ordination, and that such mutual respect for said views and practices continue.

2) The church should strive to develop, recognize, and utilize the gifts of women within the church.

3) That sessions, if possible, establish a diaconate of qualified ordained men.

4) That sessions consider how to include non-ordained men and women in the worship of the church.

5) That sessions appoint godly women and men of the congregation to assist the ordained diaconate.

6) That a future Assembly consider the position of commissioned church worker within the PCA for qualified and gifted unordained men and women.

7) The church affirm and include underprivileged and underrepresented women in the PCA.

                -I think this study report and recommendations will be well received by churches and presbyterys as a whole. But this far from settles the issue. There is rumor that some will petition the Assembly next year to push for women’s ordination to the diaconate. So we will see.

                There were several other business items that were decided but none that seemed to rise to the same interest of this report. A complete summary of all business can be found at www.pcaac.org.

One other item of interest is that the PCA grew by 11 churches nationwide (plus 20 more new church plants) and increased membership by 4k. So we can praise God for a growing church.

                Next year the General Assembly will be in Atlanta (June 12-15, 2018) and visitors are always welcome (if so interested!)

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I’m thankful to be Presbyterian. Chiefly we have a rich theological history that proudly proclaims the truth of Scriptures and week by week proclaims the Gospel fully and freely. I am thankful for the connectionalism and collected wisdom that comes from having many at different levels of church government. This makes the deliberations at times painfully inefficient but it frees the leadership from being in the hands of a few. That church government takes place on three levels: Session (local level), Presbyteries (regional level), and General Assembly (national level).

Our denomination just concluded its 45th General Assembly (GA) in Greensboro, NC. I was thankful to be able to attend this year and be a voting commissioner on matters presented before the Assembly. I did have to cut my time at GA a half of day short to get back for funeral service that took place the same week. But I got to be a part of most of the business at GA. The major business was to deliberate on the report from the study committee on the role of women in the Church.

                Last year the GA voted to form a study committee on the role on women serving in the ministry of the church. I was very skeptical of the intentions of those that were seeking such a committee thinking that you do not make a request for a study unless you are not satisfied with the current state of affairs. Seeing this as an open door to begin the process of women’s ordination. But I have to admit that my skepticism was alleviated when I read the report (the entirety of the report can be found online). I thought the study committee did a thorough and fair study of the issues.  Let me tell you some of the highlights and the recommendations that were made.

                -The very best of the report was the committees dealing with the relevant Scripture passages. This demonstrated to me that for us as a denomination the Scriptures alone are the sole authority of faith and practice. This is critical. When we begin to be influenced more from social pressures and/or current studies of the day that is when the church goes astray. But the committee stuck to the Scriptures and seemingly asked the question – what would the Word of God say about this subject? I might have had some slightly difference with some of their interpretations but at least it’s a discussion and debate about the Bible and not things extra-biblical.

                -I thought the committee did a good job in promoting the complementarian role of men and women and not an egalitarian view. God has made men and women very different – and that is a good thing! When those distinct roles are lost the family, the church, and society as a whole are weakened and not strengthened. The committee I though demonstrated and highlighted the full, rich, and robust role that women have in the church. That there is no lack of opportunities to minister and serve. But they did draw the line at ordination as an officer in the church, which is proper since with the office comes authority (1 Tim. 2:12).  The study committee did recommend that churches give women full opportunity to use their gifts and talents as God would have them to be used.

-There were seven recommendations that Assembly adopted from the report. Here is a summary of them:

1) The PCA has a variety of views and ways  in  which  women  may  serve  the  Lord  and  the  church, without ordination, and that such mutual respect for said views and practices continue.

2) The church should strive to develop, recognize, and utilize the gifts of women within the church.

3) That sessions, if possible, establish a diaconate of qualified ordained men.

4) That sessions consider how to include non-ordained men and women in the worship of the church.

5) That sessions appoint godly women and men of the congregation to assist the ordained diaconate.

6) That a future Assembly consider the position of commissioned church worker within the PCA for qualified and gifted unordained men and women.

7) The church affirm and include underprivileged and underrepresented women in the PCA.

                -I think this study report and recommendations will be well received by churches and presbyterys as a whole. But this far from settles the issue. There is rumor that some will petition the Assembly next year to push for women’s ordination to the diaconate. So we will see.

                There were several other business items that were decided but none that seemed to rise to the same interest of this report. A complete summary of all business can be found at www.pcaac.org.

One other item of interest is that the PCA grew by 11 churches nationwide (plus 20 more new church plants) and increased membership by 4k. So we can praise God for a growing church.

                Next year the General Assembly will be in Atlanta (June 12-15, 2018) and visitors are always welcome (if so interested!)

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An Update Regarding the Coronavirus [3.13.2020] https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/coronavirus-3-13-2020 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/coronavirus-3-13-2020#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/coronavirus-3-13-2020 After conferring with the elders, the pastoral staff has made the decision to cancel all activities for the time being EXCEPT for Sunday morning worship (11:00 AM). This will be the practice until otherwise notified. 

We believe this takes serious the consideration of our governing officials to limit exposure, but still maintains our priority of “not forsaking our assembling together” (Heb. 10:25). We will leave the decision to attend Sunday morning worship to everyone’s own discretion. 

If you do attend, we want to assure you that we are taking every step to protect the health of our community. Here are some of the ways we are doing this:

  • Our facility is receiving extra cleaning and disinfection. 
  • Our HVAC system is already equipped with CIMR® Infection Control Technology, which continuously disinfects viruses, bacteria, mold, and other fungi. This technology has been installed in hospitals and military facilities to combat this very problem.
  • Coffee and donuts time between Sunday school and morning worship will be suspended for the foreseeable future. (Feel free to bring your own for yourself or kids, if so desired).
  • We will change our collection and communion practice in the days to come to limit passing a common plate. More information will be given on this at the service.
  • Out of an abundance of caution, we will refrain from shaking hands or greeting others with hugs while at worship.

We encourage you to monitor your own health and to refrain from coming to worship if you have symptoms of illness. Also, remember that your personal care and hygiene not only impacts you but also your church community. Please be vigilant as a way to love your neighbors, particularly the elderly among us. 

If you are unable to attend, our live stream will be available.

This Sunday morning’s sermon, “When Panic Ensues, What Do I Do?”,  will address what we all have dealt with this week from God’s Word. Praying that the Lord will bring the comfort and conviction that we need at this time. 

As always, your pastoral staff, elders, deacons, ministry leaders are here for you and would be pleased to help in whatever way possible over the next days and weeks. Please let us know how we can do so. 

I will leave you with the Confession of Faith that we will confess this Sunday morning from Philippians 4:

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."

God bless you all!

 

 

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After conferring with the elders, the pastoral staff has made the decision to cancel all activities for the time being EXCEPT for Sunday morning worship (11:00 AM). This will be the practice until otherwise notified. 

We believe this takes serious the consideration of our governing officials to limit exposure, but still maintains our priority of “not forsaking our assembling together” (Heb. 10:25). We will leave the decision to attend Sunday morning worship to everyone’s own discretion. 

If you do attend, we want to assure you that we are taking every step to protect the health of our community. Here are some of the ways we are doing this:

  • Our facility is receiving extra cleaning and disinfection. 
  • Our HVAC system is already equipped with CIMR® Infection Control Technology, which continuously disinfects viruses, bacteria, mold, and other fungi. This technology has been installed in hospitals and military facilities to combat this very problem.
  • Coffee and donuts time between Sunday school and morning worship will be suspended for the foreseeable future. (Feel free to bring your own for yourself or kids, if so desired).
  • We will change our collection and communion practice in the days to come to limit passing a common plate. More information will be given on this at the service.
  • Out of an abundance of caution, we will refrain from shaking hands or greeting others with hugs while at worship.

We encourage you to monitor your own health and to refrain from coming to worship if you have symptoms of illness. Also, remember that your personal care and hygiene not only impacts you but also your church community. Please be vigilant as a way to love your neighbors, particularly the elderly among us. 

If you are unable to attend, our live stream will be available.

This Sunday morning’s sermon, “When Panic Ensues, What Do I Do?”,  will address what we all have dealt with this week from God’s Word. Praying that the Lord will bring the comfort and conviction that we need at this time. 

As always, your pastoral staff, elders, deacons, ministry leaders are here for you and would be pleased to help in whatever way possible over the next days and weeks. Please let us know how we can do so. 

I will leave you with the Confession of Faith that we will confess this Sunday morning from Philippians 4:

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."

God bless you all!

 

 

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An Update Regarding the Coronavirus [3.19.2020] https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/an-update-regarding-the-coronavirus--3-19-2020- https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/an-update-regarding-the-coronavirus--3-19-2020-#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/an-update-regarding-the-coronavirus--3-19-2020- The last several days have brought unprecedented change to us personally and as a nation. It seems that each day brings a new wrinkle to the freedom and lifestyle that we are accustomed to living. But I trust that all your daily physical and spiritual needs are being met and that you continue to look to the Lord to find strength in this time of change. 

The pastors, session, and diaconate of SPC held a conference call last night to discuss how to lead and encourage our precious flock during the current pandemic. Let me give you several things that we talked about:

 

WORSHIP SERVICES: Since meeting in groups larger than 10 people is discouraged, the Lord’s Day morning service will be paired down to the pastor, accompanist, and lead vocalist and will be conducted through the live stream. The order of worship will be emailed beforehand for you to print out. It will also be available, as always, here on our website. We encourage you (and all in your home) to prepare to meet with the Lord at 11 AM each Sunday, and collectively gather together in “home groups” via the live stream. Sing, confess and worship as you would if you were sitting together in the church building. Even though this is not ideal, we are grateful that these technologies exist so that we can still worship together as a congregation. We hope this form of worship service will go uninterrupted until we gather together in person again. 

SHEPHERDING: We take the task of shepherding very seriously, and the leadership of the church has taken the challenge to be especially vigilant during this time. Please let us also know ways that we can pray, encourage, or help you. Your pastors are ready/willing to make pastoral visits (if so desired, and keeping with proper pandemic protocols) for those that may need some interaction, conversation, and prayer. We want to be here for you during this time. 

MERCY NEEDS/GIVING: There may be several mercy needs in the next several weeks of people in our congregation (and beyond), and we want to be prepared to meet them if need be. We encourage you to continue to give to your church regularly during this time of absence. Our website provides several different ways that you can give. Together, we can bear the burdens that are sure to come.

 

Our God is good—and He is good all the time!!  I have been reminded of this truth often this last week, as well as the words of our Lord when he said “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” My prayer during this time is that your belief/faith may grow amidst adversity and that your patience and peace would abound more and more, despite the circumstances swirling around.  The Lord controls the winds and the waves, upholds the birds and the flowers, and controls and sustains us day by day. That will not and cannot change! 

On the behalf of Pastor Myers and myself, you as a church are in our daily prayers! May richly bless you and we will “see you” via the live stream Sunday at 11 AM. 

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The last several days have brought unprecedented change to us personally and as a nation. It seems that each day brings a new wrinkle to the freedom and lifestyle that we are accustomed to living. But I trust that all your daily physical and spiritual needs are being met and that you continue to look to the Lord to find strength in this time of change. 

The pastors, session, and diaconate of SPC held a conference call last night to discuss how to lead and encourage our precious flock during the current pandemic. Let me give you several things that we talked about:

 

WORSHIP SERVICES: Since meeting in groups larger than 10 people is discouraged, the Lord’s Day morning service will be paired down to the pastor, accompanist, and lead vocalist and will be conducted through the live stream. The order of worship will be emailed beforehand for you to print out. It will also be available, as always, here on our website. We encourage you (and all in your home) to prepare to meet with the Lord at 11 AM each Sunday, and collectively gather together in “home groups” via the live stream. Sing, confess and worship as you would if you were sitting together in the church building. Even though this is not ideal, we are grateful that these technologies exist so that we can still worship together as a congregation. We hope this form of worship service will go uninterrupted until we gather together in person again. 

SHEPHERDING: We take the task of shepherding very seriously, and the leadership of the church has taken the challenge to be especially vigilant during this time. Please let us also know ways that we can pray, encourage, or help you. Your pastors are ready/willing to make pastoral visits (if so desired, and keeping with proper pandemic protocols) for those that may need some interaction, conversation, and prayer. We want to be here for you during this time. 

MERCY NEEDS/GIVING: There may be several mercy needs in the next several weeks of people in our congregation (and beyond), and we want to be prepared to meet them if need be. We encourage you to continue to give to your church regularly during this time of absence. Our website provides several different ways that you can give. Together, we can bear the burdens that are sure to come.

 

Our God is good—and He is good all the time!!  I have been reminded of this truth often this last week, as well as the words of our Lord when he said “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” My prayer during this time is that your belief/faith may grow amidst adversity and that your patience and peace would abound more and more, despite the circumstances swirling around.  The Lord controls the winds and the waves, upholds the birds and the flowers, and controls and sustains us day by day. That will not and cannot change! 

On the behalf of Pastor Myers and myself, you as a church are in our daily prayers! May richly bless you and we will “see you” via the live stream Sunday at 11 AM. 

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Date Scheduled To Resume In-Person Worship https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/reopening-date https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/reopening-date#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/reopening-date As we adjust to life amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Church Leadership at Smyrna Presbyterian has decided to reopen for in-person worship on Sunday, May 17. 

God has blessed us immeasurably even in this season of great challenge and trial. By God’s grace things will continue to get better and we as His people will continue to grow in trusting Him for provision, protection, and direction. As the church leadership continues to engage in conversation about what it will look like to reopen for Corporate Worship, we wanted to offer a few things in terms of the perspective we need to have. 

First, there is a place in which we should rejoice and be glad. David in Psalm 122 begins by saying “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD!’” It is quite clear that all of us regardless of our condition and circumstance that we should be glad when God’s people are able to worship together and that there is something spiritually hindered by not being able to do so. Nothing else in the world can duplicate God meeting with his gathered people on the Lord’s Day. So, as we begin to reopen on May 17, let us begin with an attitude of gladness that God is making a way for us to worship together. 

Second, we must exercise wisdom in who should come to corporate worship. Reopen does not mean everything is back to normal, rather we must be careful in how we proceed. What that looks like might be different per person and per family. If you have pre-existing health conditions or any other vulnerable circumstances as this time it might not be wise for you to come. We will not have a nursery or children’s church and therefore if you have very young children there will be challenges in coming. There might be other circumstances that are specific to you and your family that might need careful consideration as well. We will do our best to ensure the greatest safety possible, however, this does not mean that coming is risk-free. Pray and discuss as a family and even with your shepherding elder if you have more questions. 

Third, whatever decision you make is before you and the Lord, and no one else. Only the Lord can bind the conscience. Therefore, none should determine in this circumstance what is right or wrong for others, for attending or not attending. If you decide to come now – praise the Lord! If you decided to not return until a later date – praise the Lord! We will affirm each other in the decisions they make at this time. 

And lastly—but certainly not least—we want to be alert in ways in which we can Know, Grow, and Show. Many things in the world are changing and have changed. There are changes in processes and procedures, there are changes in the ways in which we used to do things. Change is not all bad, but Smyrna Pres and the vision that we have are not changing. Although things have to be altered, we are not altering whose we are (God’s) and what we have been called to do. Therefore, as things are still trying to get into some form of a rhythm, we should be reminded that no matter what changes come, we still want to proactively seek ways to Know, Grow, and Show forth the love of Christ.

For more on what to expect when the church reopens and how to let us know if you plan to attend, please check out our reopening page

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As we adjust to life amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Church Leadership at Smyrna Presbyterian has decided to reopen for in-person worship on Sunday, May 17. 

God has blessed us immeasurably even in this season of great challenge and trial. By God’s grace things will continue to get better and we as His people will continue to grow in trusting Him for provision, protection, and direction. As the church leadership continues to engage in conversation about what it will look like to reopen for Corporate Worship, we wanted to offer a few things in terms of the perspective we need to have. 

First, there is a place in which we should rejoice and be glad. David in Psalm 122 begins by saying “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the LORD!’” It is quite clear that all of us regardless of our condition and circumstance that we should be glad when God’s people are able to worship together and that there is something spiritually hindered by not being able to do so. Nothing else in the world can duplicate God meeting with his gathered people on the Lord’s Day. So, as we begin to reopen on May 17, let us begin with an attitude of gladness that God is making a way for us to worship together. 

Second, we must exercise wisdom in who should come to corporate worship. Reopen does not mean everything is back to normal, rather we must be careful in how we proceed. What that looks like might be different per person and per family. If you have pre-existing health conditions or any other vulnerable circumstances as this time it might not be wise for you to come. We will not have a nursery or children’s church and therefore if you have very young children there will be challenges in coming. There might be other circumstances that are specific to you and your family that might need careful consideration as well. We will do our best to ensure the greatest safety possible, however, this does not mean that coming is risk-free. Pray and discuss as a family and even with your shepherding elder if you have more questions. 

Third, whatever decision you make is before you and the Lord, and no one else. Only the Lord can bind the conscience. Therefore, none should determine in this circumstance what is right or wrong for others, for attending or not attending. If you decide to come now – praise the Lord! If you decided to not return until a later date – praise the Lord! We will affirm each other in the decisions they make at this time. 

And lastly—but certainly not least—we want to be alert in ways in which we can Know, Grow, and Show. Many things in the world are changing and have changed. There are changes in processes and procedures, there are changes in the ways in which we used to do things. Change is not all bad, but Smyrna Pres and the vision that we have are not changing. Although things have to be altered, we are not altering whose we are (God’s) and what we have been called to do. Therefore, as things are still trying to get into some form of a rhythm, we should be reminded that no matter what changes come, we still want to proactively seek ways to Know, Grow, and Show forth the love of Christ.

For more on what to expect when the church reopens and how to let us know if you plan to attend, please check out our reopening page

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SPC to Include Wine in Communion https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/wine-in-communion https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/wine-in-communion#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/wine-in-communion

 

The leadership of SPC has recently decided to revise our communion practice. Starting Sunday, September 5, wine will be included as an element of our celebration of the Lord’s Supper. This change accords with the biblical/theological meaning of the Supper as well as adheres to the historical practice of the Church. And we hope this video by Pastor Joel will thoroughly explain that.

For those who have a conscientious objection to the use of wine during communion, grape juice will be available. 

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The leadership of SPC has recently decided to revise our communion practice. Starting Sunday, September 5, wine will be included as an element of our celebration of the Lord’s Supper. This change accords with the biblical/theological meaning of the Supper as well as adheres to the historical practice of the Church. And we hope this video by Pastor Joel will thoroughly explain that.

For those who have a conscientious objection to the use of wine during communion, grape juice will be available. 

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On the Return of Evening Worship https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/on-the-return-of-evening-worship https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/on-the-return-of-evening-worship#comments Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0500 https://www.smyrnapres.org/news-events/post/on-the-return-of-evening-worship IMG_7169

As we emerge from the disruptions of the last year, we have been able to resume almost all ministries and activities at the church. The very last "reopening" is Sunday evening worship. Lord willing, that will change starting Sunday, September 12 at 5:30 PM with the resumption of Sunday evening worship. 

The evening service will be another opportunity to receive the means of grace include many of the same things we do during morning worship, but perhaps in a different way. In many ways, the service may be quieter and more reflective with more time to acknowledge specific prayer requests and things going on in the world, to hear testimonies from our brothers and sister in Christ, or to focus on missions.

You may notice that the service is set to begin earlier than evening worship in previous years. This is because the service is also designed to be family-oriented. We want families to be able to come without getting home too late when there is school or work the next day. We want the service to aid in family worship. There will be the reciting of catechisms, memory verses, and hymns of the month that your children can learn as they return week after week.

We will have evening worship every Sunday except for the first Sunday of the month when we have a fellowship meal after morning worship.

Why Evening Worship?

Participating in morning and evening worship may be something new for many of you and several question may come to mind - why Sunday evening? Why should I (and my family) commit myself to coming again to church? Isn’t one time enough?

Sinclair Ferguson, in his article “Sabbath Rest”, talks about the spiritual benefits of the Sabbath. Though the article does not specifically address Sunday evening worship, his biblical thinking and reasoning applies to the questions above.

The anonymous author of Hebrews found different ways of describing the superiority of the Lord Jesus Christ. One of them, which forms the underlying motif of chapters 3 and 4, is that Jesus Christ gives the rest that neither Moses nor Joshua could provide. Under Moses, the people of God were disobedient and failed to enter into God's rest (3:18). Psalm 95:11(quoted in Hebrews 4:3) implies that Joshua could not have given the people "real rest" since "through David" God speaks about the rest he will give on another day (Heb. 4:7). This in turn implies that "There remains a sabbath rest for the people of God" (Heb. 4:9).

In speaking of this rest (3:18; 4:1, 3-6, 8) the author consistently used the same word for "rest" (katapausis). Suddenly, in speaking about the "rest" that remains for the people of God, he uses a different word (sabbatismos, used only here in the NT) meaning specifically a Sabbath rest. In the context of his teaching, this refers fundamentally to the "Sabbath rest" which is found in Christ ("Come ... I will give you rest," Matt. 11:28-30). Thus we are to "strive to enter that rest" (4:11). It is no surprise then that the Sabbath, which was made for man, is experienced by him in four ways.

In creation, man was made as God's image—intended "naturally" as God's child to reflect his Father. Since his Father worked creatively for six days and rested on the seventh, Adam, like a son, was to copy Him. Together, on the seventh day, they were to walk in the garden. That day was a time to listen to all the Father had to show and tell about the wonders of His creating work.

Thus the Sabbath Day was meant to be "Father's Day" every week. It was "made" for Adam. It also had a hint of the future in it. The Father had finished His work, but Adam had not.

But Adam fell. He ruined everything, including the Sabbath. Instead of walking with God, he hid from God (Gen. 3:8). It was the Sabbath, Father's Day, but God had to look for him!

This new context helps us to understand the significance of the fourth commandment. It was given to fallen man—that is why it contains a "you shall not." He was not to work, but to rest. Externally, that meant ceasing from his ordinary tasks in order to meet with God. Internally, it involved ceasing from all self-sufficiency in order to rest in God's grace.

Considering this, what difference did the coming of Jesus make to the Sabbath day? In Christ crucified and risen, we find eternal rest (Matt. 11:28-30), and we are restored to communion with God (Matt. 11:25-30). The lost treasures of the Sabbath are restored. We rest in Christ from our labor of self-sufficiency, and we have access to the Father (Eph. 2:18). As we meet with Him, He shows us Himself, His ways, His world, His purposes, His glory. And whatever was temporary about the Mosaic Sabbath must be left behind as the reality of the intimate communion of the Adamic Sabbath is again experienced in our worship of the risen Savior on the first day of the week— the Lord's Day.

But we have not yet reached the goal. We still struggle to rest from our labors; we still must "strive to enter that rest" (Heb. 4:11). Consequently the weekly nature of the Sabbath continues as a reminder that we are not yet home with the Father. And since this rest is ours only through union with Christ in His death and resurrection, our struggles to refuse the old life and enjoy the new continue.

But one may ask: "How does this impact my Sundays as a Christian?" This view of the Sabbath should help us regulate our weeks. Sunday is "Father's Day," and we have an appointment to meet Him. The child who asks "How short can the meeting be?" has a dysfunctional relationship problem—not an intellectual, theological problem—something is amiss in his fellowship with God.

This view of the Sabbath helps us deal with the question "Is it ok to do ... on Sunday?—because I don't have any time to do it in the rest of the week?" If this is our question, the problem is not how we use Sunday, it is how we are misusing the rest of the week.

This view of the Lord's Day helps us see the day as a foretaste of heaven. And it teaches us that if the worship, fellowship, ministry, and outreach of our churches do not give expression to that then something is seriously amiss.

Hebrews teaches us that eternal glory is a Sabbath rest. Every day, all day, will be "Father's Day!" Thus if here and now we learn the pleasures of a God-given weekly rhythm, it will no longer seem strange to us that the eternal glory can be described as a prolonged Sabbath!

 

*This full article can be found at https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/sabbath-rest

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As we emerge from the disruptions of the last year, we have been able to resume almost all ministries and activities at the church. The very last "reopening" is Sunday evening worship. Lord willing, that will change starting Sunday, September 12 at 5:30 PM with the resumption of Sunday evening worship. 

The evening service will be another opportunity to receive the means of grace include many of the same things we do during morning worship, but perhaps in a different way. In many ways, the service may be quieter and more reflective with more time to acknowledge specific prayer requests and things going on in the world, to hear testimonies from our brothers and sister in Christ, or to focus on missions.

You may notice that the service is set to begin earlier than evening worship in previous years. This is because the service is also designed to be family-oriented. We want families to be able to come without getting home too late when there is school or work the next day. We want the service to aid in family worship. There will be the reciting of catechisms, memory verses, and hymns of the month that your children can learn as they return week after week.

We will have evening worship every Sunday except for the first Sunday of the month when we have a fellowship meal after morning worship.

Why Evening Worship?

Participating in morning and evening worship may be something new for many of you and several question may come to mind - why Sunday evening? Why should I (and my family) commit myself to coming again to church? Isn’t one time enough?

Sinclair Ferguson, in his article “Sabbath Rest”, talks about the spiritual benefits of the Sabbath. Though the article does not specifically address Sunday evening worship, his biblical thinking and reasoning applies to the questions above.

The anonymous author of Hebrews found different ways of describing the superiority of the Lord Jesus Christ. One of them, which forms the underlying motif of chapters 3 and 4, is that Jesus Christ gives the rest that neither Moses nor Joshua could provide. Under Moses, the people of God were disobedient and failed to enter into God's rest (3:18). Psalm 95:11(quoted in Hebrews 4:3) implies that Joshua could not have given the people "real rest" since "through David" God speaks about the rest he will give on another day (Heb. 4:7). This in turn implies that "There remains a sabbath rest for the people of God" (Heb. 4:9).

In speaking of this rest (3:18; 4:1, 3-6, 8) the author consistently used the same word for "rest" (katapausis). Suddenly, in speaking about the "rest" that remains for the people of God, he uses a different word (sabbatismos, used only here in the NT) meaning specifically a Sabbath rest. In the context of his teaching, this refers fundamentally to the "Sabbath rest" which is found in Christ ("Come ... I will give you rest," Matt. 11:28-30). Thus we are to "strive to enter that rest" (4:11). It is no surprise then that the Sabbath, which was made for man, is experienced by him in four ways.

In creation, man was made as God's image—intended "naturally" as God's child to reflect his Father. Since his Father worked creatively for six days and rested on the seventh, Adam, like a son, was to copy Him. Together, on the seventh day, they were to walk in the garden. That day was a time to listen to all the Father had to show and tell about the wonders of His creating work.

Thus the Sabbath Day was meant to be "Father's Day" every week. It was "made" for Adam. It also had a hint of the future in it. The Father had finished His work, but Adam had not.

But Adam fell. He ruined everything, including the Sabbath. Instead of walking with God, he hid from God (Gen. 3:8). It was the Sabbath, Father's Day, but God had to look for him!

This new context helps us to understand the significance of the fourth commandment. It was given to fallen man—that is why it contains a "you shall not." He was not to work, but to rest. Externally, that meant ceasing from his ordinary tasks in order to meet with God. Internally, it involved ceasing from all self-sufficiency in order to rest in God's grace.

Considering this, what difference did the coming of Jesus make to the Sabbath day? In Christ crucified and risen, we find eternal rest (Matt. 11:28-30), and we are restored to communion with God (Matt. 11:25-30). The lost treasures of the Sabbath are restored. We rest in Christ from our labor of self-sufficiency, and we have access to the Father (Eph. 2:18). As we meet with Him, He shows us Himself, His ways, His world, His purposes, His glory. And whatever was temporary about the Mosaic Sabbath must be left behind as the reality of the intimate communion of the Adamic Sabbath is again experienced in our worship of the risen Savior on the first day of the week— the Lord's Day.

But we have not yet reached the goal. We still struggle to rest from our labors; we still must "strive to enter that rest" (Heb. 4:11). Consequently the weekly nature of the Sabbath continues as a reminder that we are not yet home with the Father. And since this rest is ours only through union with Christ in His death and resurrection, our struggles to refuse the old life and enjoy the new continue.

But one may ask: "How does this impact my Sundays as a Christian?" This view of the Sabbath should help us regulate our weeks. Sunday is "Father's Day," and we have an appointment to meet Him. The child who asks "How short can the meeting be?" has a dysfunctional relationship problem—not an intellectual, theological problem—something is amiss in his fellowship with God.

This view of the Sabbath helps us deal with the question "Is it ok to do ... on Sunday?—because I don't have any time to do it in the rest of the week?" If this is our question, the problem is not how we use Sunday, it is how we are misusing the rest of the week.

This view of the Lord's Day helps us see the day as a foretaste of heaven. And it teaches us that if the worship, fellowship, ministry, and outreach of our churches do not give expression to that then something is seriously amiss.

Hebrews teaches us that eternal glory is a Sabbath rest. Every day, all day, will be "Father's Day!" Thus if here and now we learn the pleasures of a God-given weekly rhythm, it will no longer seem strange to us that the eternal glory can be described as a prolonged Sabbath!

 

*This full article can be found at https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/sabbath-rest

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