PERSISTING TO THE END

 

THEME: PERSISTING TO THE END

 Scripture Reading

1^st Scripture Reading - Exodus 17:1-7,

2^nd Scripture Reading - Philippians 2:1-13,

3^rd Scripture Reading - Matthew 21:23-32

 

As we observed Worldwide Communion today let us educate ourselves on what exactly Worldwide Communion is

Worldwide Communion, also known as Holy Communion or the Eucharist, is a central religious practice in Christianity where believers partake in bread and wine (or grape juice) as symbols of the body and blood of Jesus Christ. It is observed by various Christian denominations around the world. Here are some key points and relevant Bible texts:

Significance: Worldwide Communion commemorates the Last Supper, the final meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion.

Scriptural Basis: The foundation for Communion can be found in several passages in the Bible:

Matthew 26:26-28: "While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, 'Take and eat; this is my body.' Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'"

1 Corinthians 11:23-26: "For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, 'This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way, after supper, he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.'"

Unity: Worldwide Communion serves as a unifying practice for Christians, emphasizing their common faith in Christ's sacrifice.

Variation: The way Communion is observed can vary among denominations. Some see the bread and wine as symbolic, while others believe in the literal transformation into the body and blood of Christ (transubstantiation).

Frequency: The frequency of Communion also varies, with some churches celebrating it weekly, monthly, or on special occasions.

In summary, Worldwide Communion is a sacred practice in Christianity, rooted in the Last Supper of Jesus and symbolizing the sacrifice he made for the forgiveness of sins. Its specific practices and theological interpretations can vary among Christian denominations.

 

INTRODUCTION:

PEACE BE WITH YOU, Beloved, Good morning, we welcome ourselves to another Spirit Filled Service, dear brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, we gather to explore a theme deeply woven into the fabric of our faith: persisting to the end. We will draw wisdom from three passages from the Bible - Exodus 17:1-7, Philippians 2:1-13, and Matthew 21:23-32. As we reflect on these scriptures, let us consider how they illuminate the path of perseverance in our Christian journey.

 

I. The Struggle for Perseverance (Exodus 17:1-7):

In Exodus 17:1-7, we encounter the Israelites in the wilderness, thirsty and weary, facing the daunting challenge of water scarcity. Their journey was filled with trials and tribulations, yet they persevered. From this passage, we learn:

A. Perseverance Amidst Trials:

Just as the Israelites faced the wilderness, we, too, encounter trials in our faith journey.

Despite the hardships, we must persist, for God's provision often comes after we have exhausted our own strength.

B. Trusting in God's Faithfulness:

The rock that provided water for the Israelites symbolizes God's faithfulness.

In our struggles, we must trust in God's unwavering promise to sustain us.

II. The Example of Christ (Philippians 2:1-13):

In Philippians 2:1-13, the Apostle Paul points us to the ultimate example of perseverance - Jesus Christ. He left His heavenly glory to become a servant and even endured the cross. From this passage, we learn:

 

A. The Humility of Christ:

Jesus' humility in His earthly life teaches us to put others before ourselves.

Perseverance often requires humbling ourselves for the sake of God's will.

B. God's Empowering Grace:

God works in us, both to will and to act according to His good purpose.

Through His grace, we find the strength to persist in our Christian walk.

III. The Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21:23-32):

In Matthew 21:23-32, Jesus tells the parable of the two sons—one who initially refused but later obeyed and another who professed obedience but did not follow through. This parable reminds us:

 

A. Actions Speak Louder:

Mere words and intentions are insufficient; genuine persistence is displayed through actions.

Our faithfulness to God's call is seen in our obedience and deeds.

B. Repentance and Transformation:

The son who initially refused repented and obeyed. His transformation illustrates the power of genuine repentance.

Persisting to the end often involves a process of inner change and growth.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on Exodus 17:1-7, Philippians 2:1-13, and Matthew 21:23-32, we are reminded that persisting to the end is not an easy path, but it is a path filled with divine grace, humility, and transformation. Just as the Israelites persevered through the wilderness, as Christ humbled Himself for our sake, and as the repentant son obeyed, let us too be encouraged to persist in our Christian journey. May we trust in God's faithfulness, rely on His empowering grace, and let our actions reflect our unwavering commitment to follow Christ to the end. In doing so, we find the strength to persevere and the promise of eternal life in Him.

Amen.

Let’s pray 

THEME: GIVING HOPE TO THE ADDICTED IN CHRIST

THEME: GIVING HOPE TO THE ADDICTED IN CHRIST

1^st Bible Reading:- Proverbs 23:18,

2^nd Bible Reading:- Colossians 1:27,

and

3^rd Bible Reading:- Luke 15:11-24

BY: REV. IMMANUEL WIAFE

Blue Cross Sunday 24th September, 2023

INTRODUCTION:

 

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to reflect on a theme that is close to our hearts – "Giving Hope to the addicted in Christ." Addiction is a battle that many face, but as Christians, we believe in the power of Christ's redemption and the hope He offers to all. Our scripture readings from Proverbs 23:18, Colossians 1:27, and Luke 15:11-24 provide us with profound insights into this topic.

 

I. Proverbs 23:18 - "Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off."

 

A. This verse reminds us that, in Christ, there is always hope for a brighter future.

B. Addiction can make one feel hopeless, but as Christians, we know that Christ offers a future filled with hope.

C. Let us share this message with those struggling, assuring them that Christ's love can transform their lives.

 

II. Colossians 1:27 - "To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

 

A. This scripture reveals that Christ resides within us, offering hope and glory.

B. Addiction can create a void in one's life, but Christ's presence fills that void with hope and purpose.

C. Let us encourage those in the grip of addiction to embrace the indwelling Christ and find their hope in Him.

 

III. Luke 15:11-24 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

 

A. This parable beautifully illustrates God's boundless love and forgiveness.

B. The prodigal son, lost in addiction to worldly pleasures, found hope and redemption when he returned to his father.

C. As Christians, we must emulate the father's love and open our hearts to those seeking recovery, offering hope and a second chance.

 

CONCLUSION:

In closing, dear brothers and sisters, let us remember that addiction can affect anyone, but in Christ, there is hope for healing and redemption. As we reflect on Proverbs 23:18, Colossians 1:27, and the Parable of the Prodigal Son, let us commit ourselves to being beacons of hope for those battling addiction. Through Christ's love and our support, we can help them find their way back to the path of righteousness, knowing that, in Christ, there is always hope for a brighter future. Amen.