Week ending January 2, 2005
NOTE: apologies for the rough appearance... same computer... same problem... urgh!
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom
HAPPY NEW YEAR
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor (Laura1), send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
A CHRISTMAS STORY—According to Philippians 2:5-11
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
SERMON NOTES—God's Gift Of Hope For You
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: Movie Night, December 28
=============================
A CHRISTMAS STORY—According to Philippians 2:5-11
Philippians 2:5-6
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=phil%202;&version=47;
John 1:1-5
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john%201:1-5;&version=47;
Philippians 2:7-8
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=phil%202;&version=47;
Isaiah 42:1-4
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isa%2042;&version=47;
Isaiah 53
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=isa%2053;&version=47;
Daniel 7:13-14
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=dan%207;&version=47;
Philippians 2:9-10
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=phil%202;&version=47;
Psalm 2
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ps%202;&version=47;
Philippians 2:11
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=phil%202;&version=47;
Revelation 7:9-12
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=rev%207;&version=47;
What gift of praise will you give God this year?
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HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
“That's just fancy talk SpongeBob! Hey! You know what? If you want to act fancy, just put your pinky up!” – the wisdom of Patrick
http://www.tvtome.com/tvtome/servlet/GuidePageServlet/showid-3428/epid-53077/
We’re building a Collegium Dictionary.
January 2:
Atonement
If you want to do some investigation in advance, check out these web pages:
Various Christian theories of the Atonement on religioustolerance.org
http://www.religioustolerance.org/chr_atone5.htm
Jen Lemen on why atonement theory is important
http://www.jenlemen.com/archives/000618.html
Discussion on atonement theory at Open Source Theology
http://www.opensourcetheology.net/node/498
Also, there are 102 references to atonement in the OT and NT in the English Standard Version of the bible.
http://www.biblegateway.com/keyword/index.php?search=atonement&searchtype=all&version=47
The questions that remain:
What should we do to prevent ourselves from getting stuck in ruts about issues?
How do (the other) words relate to orthodoxy and orthopraxy?
Is there really a right way and a wrong way to worship God?
How do we as people of God determine what is orthodox and what is not?
What things do we need to teach to those who are in the heterodoxy and heteropraxy categories?
How do propitiation and reconciliation relate to atonement?
What is the difference in reconciliation between the OT and the NT?
Definitions in progress (leave additions, questions, corrections in the comments at the top of the page):
Propitiation: that which appeases the wrath of God (Wrath: strong term used to describe God’s anger) (ref: 1 John 2:1-6; 1 John 4:7-12; Romans 3:21-26; Romans 1:18; Revelation 6:16-17)
Reconciliation: making up; making things better; change of attitude by both person and God; complete reversal of the relation between God and humans has been accomplished (Romans 5:10); the work of God because he initiates man’s salvation—we’re sinful, we can’t start; done by the death of Christ (Enmity: deep seated, mutual hatred) (ref: Romans 5:6-11; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Colossians 1:19-23; James 4:4)
Orthodoxy: Right belief; the gospel does not change (ref: Galatians 1:6-9)
Orthopraxy: Right practice; Chill with right people=life; Citizenship in heaven (ref: Philippians 3:17-4:1)
Heterodoxy: Believing that which is not the accepted view; Other belief; Wrong=death; Life and death issues; Paul curses himself if wrong
Heteropraxy: Other practice; Chill with wrong people=die; Destruction; Citizenship in hell; making up your own rules to worship/believe in God
Apostasy: Intentionally moving away from right belief-practice; telling God to go sit on a tack because you really don’t care what he thinks anymore
Heresy: Dangerous mis-belief; can be intentional or unintentional; for example, thinking it’s okay to cheat on a test
Still up:
immanent transcendent contingent necessary
awe sovereignty judgment repentance blasphemy holiness trespass
love yearn sin fear righteousness mercy grace unity forgiveness
wisdom faith majesty glory discipline justice redemption
peace hope joy justification salvation blessed regeneration
=============================
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
Winter Retreat dates: January 21-23 (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Movie Night: Tuesday, December 28; bring movies to share (Mgr. Jake D)
Bowling Party: January or February—email your preference (Mgr. Jennifer M)
If you have questions or suggestions, contact the managers, or email tfbyam1@hotmail.com and your message will be forwarded.
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
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SERMON NOTES—God's Gift Of Hope For You
Pastor Charlie
December 26, 2004
Proverbs 13:12
Biblical Hope is not wishful thinking.
Biblical Hope is not blind optimism.
Biblical hope is not ambitious dreams.
Biblical Hope is the confident expectation that God is willing and able to fulfill the promises that He has made to me. 1 Peter 1:3-4; Hebrews 6:19
Two key areas in which we draw hope from Christ:
WE HAVE HOPE BECAUSE WE ARE ABSOLVED OF OUR PAST. Lamentations 3:21-23; 1 John 1:9; 1 Timothy 6:17
WE CAN HAVE HOPE BECAUSE WE ARE ASSURED OF OUR FUTURE.
Titus 3:5-7; Ephesians 1:17-19
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: Movie Night, December 28
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Movie Night, December 28, time TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Bowling, TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
BBQ (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week ending December 26, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom
REMEMBER, NO COLLEGIUM DECEMBER 26
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor (Laura1), send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
SERMON NOTES—“When You Follow a Star and Find a Stable”
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: Collegium Christmas Soiree, December 22
=============================
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
“That's just fancy talk SpongeBob! Hey! You know what? If you want to act fancy, just put your pinky up!” – the wisdom of Patrick
We’re building a Collegium Dictionary.
Belief and practice are not cleanly divided categories, but are rather interrelated. What we believe determines what we do and what we do affects what we believe. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3. Without loving action, orthodoxy—right belief—is meaningless. Without right thinking, orthopraxy—right practice—is meaningless. As we study through Holy Vocab our task is to understand with our minds and our behavior.
Through his sovereign and free choice to be the propitiation and reconciliation, God the Son became for time and eternity the only means to bring humanity into right relationship with God. Propitiation is God’s in-Christ satisfaction of his own righteous and just wrath toward sinful, rebellious humanity. Reconciliation is God’s in-Christ friendship-enabling provision for humanity’s rebelliously chosen enmity with God.
January 2:
Atonement
If you want to do some investigation in advance, check out these web pages:
Various Christian theories of the Atonement on religioustolerance.org
Jen Lemen on why atonement theory is important
Discussion on atonement theory at Open Source Theology
Also, there are 102 references to atonement in the OT and NT in the English Standard Version of the bible.
The questions that remain:
What should we do to prevent ourselves from getting stuck in ruts about issues?
How do (the other) words relate to orthodoxy and orthopraxy?
Is there really a right way and a wrong way to worship God?
How do we as people of God determine what is orthodox and what is not?
What things do we need to teach to those who are in the heterodoxy and heteropraxy categories?
How do propitiation and reconciliation relate to atonement?
What is the difference in reconciliation between the OT and the NT?
Definitions in progress (leave additions, questions, corrections in the comments at the top of the page):
Propitiation: that which appeases the wrath of God (Wrath: strong term used to describe God’s anger) (ref: 1 John 2:1-6; 1 John 4:7-12; Romans 3:21-26; Romans 1:18; Revelation 6:16-17)
Reconciliation: making up; making things better; change of attitude by both person and God; complete reversal of the relation between God and humans has been accomplished (Romans 5:10); the work of God because he initiates man’s salvation—we’re sinful, we can’t start; done by the death of Christ (Enmity: deep seated, mutual hatred) (ref: Romans 5:6-11; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; Colossians 1:19-23; James 4:4)
Orthodoxy: Right belief; the gospel does not change (ref: Galatians 1:6-9)
Orthopraxy: Right practice; Chill with right people=life; Citizenship in heaven (ref: Philippians 3:17-4:1)
Heterodoxy: Believing that which is not the accepted view; Other belief; Wrong=death; Life and death issues; Paul curses himself if wrong
Heteropraxy: Other practice; Chill with wrong people=die; Destruction; Citizenship in hell; making up your own rules to worship/believe in God
Apostasy: Intentionally moving away from right belief-practice; telling God to go sit on a tack because you really don’t care what he thinks anymore
Heresy: Dangerous mis-belief; can be intentional or unintentional; for example, thinking it’s okay to cheat on a test
Still up:
immanent transcendent contingent necessary
awe sovereignty judgment repentance blasphemy holiness trespass
love yearn sin fear righteousness mercy grace unity forgiveness
wisdom faith majesty glory discipline justice redemption
peace hope joy justification salvation blessed regeneration
=============================
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
Winter Retreat dates: January 7-9, 21-23, or 28-30 (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Christmas Soiree dates: Wednesday, December 22 @ 6:30, Barnhart Abode; bring your favorite cookie toppings and $3 for the CATERED meal! (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night: Tuesday, December 28; bring movies to share (Mgr. Jake D)
Bowling Party: January or February—email your preference (Mgr. Jennifer M)
If you have questions or suggestions, contact the managers, or email tfbyam1@hotmail.com and your message will be forwarded.
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
=============================
SERMON NOTES—“When You Follow a Star and Find a Stable”
Matthew 2
December 19, 2004
Charlie Rice
When we find ourselves at a stable we need to LOOK FOR GOD (v. 10, 11). Genesis 45; Job 1; Psalm 23
When we find ourselves at a stable, we need to OFFER WHAT WE HAVE TO GOD (v. 11).
When we find ourselves at a stable, we need to BE WILLING TO CHANGE OUR PLANS (v. 12). Isaiah 55:8; Romans 8:29; Romans 12:2; John 3:16
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: Collegium Christmas Soiree, December 22
Collegium Christmas Soiree, December 22 @ 6:30 pm at the Barnhart Abode (Mgr: JJ P)
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Movie Night , December 28, time TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Bowling, TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
BBQ (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week ending December 19, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor (Laura1), send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
SERMON NOTES—The True Spirit of Christmas
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB “Christmas Celebration”
=============================
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
“That's just fancy talk SpongeBob! Hey! You know what? If you want to act fancy, just put your pinky up!” – the wisdom of Patrick
We’re building a Collegium Dictionary.
December 19:
propitiation
reconciliation
The questions that remain:
What should we do to prevent ourselves from getting stuck in ruts about issues?
How do (the other) words relate to orthodoxy and orthopraxy?
Is there really a right way and a wrong way to worship God?
How do we as people of God determine what is orthodox and what is not?
What things do we need to teach to those who are in the heterodoxy and heteropraxy categories?
Defined so far:
Orthodoxy: Right belief; the gospel does not change (ref: Galatians 1:6-9)
Orthopraxy: Right practice; Chill with right people=life; Citizenship in heaven (ref: Philippians 3:17-4:1)
Heterodoxy: Other belief; Wrong=death; Life and death issues; Paul curses himself if wrong
Heteropraxy: Other practice; Chill with wrong people=die; Destruction; Citizenship in hell
Apostasy: Going away from right belief-practice; Intentional
Heresy: Dangerous mis-belief; can be intentional or unintentional
Still up:
immanent transcendent contingent necessary
awe sovereignty judgment repentance blasphemy holiness trespass
love yearn sin fear righteousness mercy grace unity forgiveness
wisdom faith majesty glory discipline justice redemption
peace hope joy justification salvation blessed regeneration
=============================
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
Winter Retreat dates: January 7-9, 21-23, or 28-30 (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Christmas Soiree dates: Wednesday, December 22 @ 6:30, Barnhart Abode; bring your favorite cookie toppings (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night: Tuesday, December 28; bring movies to share (Mgr. Jake D)
Bowling Party: January or February—email your preference (Mgr. Jennifer M)
If you have questions or suggestions, contact the managers, or email tfbyam1@hotmail.com and your message will be forwarded.
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
=============================
SERMON NOTES—The True Spirit of Christmas
Luke 1:46-55
December 12, 2004
The true spirit of Christmas can be summarized in one word: WORSHIP
Genuine worship happens when WE INVOLVE OUR WHOLE SELF. Luke 1:46, 47; Isaiah 29:13; John 4:23
Genuine worship happens when WE GROW IN OUR INTENSITY Luke 1:46, 47
Genuine worship happens when WE DISPLAY A HUMBLE HEART Luke 1 48; James 4:6; Isaiah 57:15
Genuine worship happens when WE FOCUS ON GOD. Luke 1:46; 1 Timothy 1:17
Genuine worship happens when WE PROCLAIM WHAT GOD HAS DONE. Luke 1:48-50; Psalm 71:14-16
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB “Christmas Celebration”
TFB “Christmas Celebration” December 12, 6:00 p.m.
TFB kids musical “A Star Is Born” December 18 & 19, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Christmas Soiree, December 22 @ 6:30 pm at the Barnhart Abode (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night , December 28, time TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Bowling, TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
BBQ (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week ending December 12, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor (Laura1), send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
SERMON NOTES—Reasons We Can Miss Christmas & Ways We Can Experience Christmas
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB “Christmas Celebration”
=============================
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
“That's just fancy talk SpongeBob! Hey! You know what? If you want to act fancy, just put your pinky up!” – the wisdom of Patrick
We’re building the Collegium Dictionary. Here are the words for Sunday, December 12, 2004
December 5, 2004 we defined:
orthodoxy
heterodoxy
heteropraxy
orthopraxy
How should we word the definitions for our dictionary?
The questions that remain:
What should we do to prevent ourselves from getting stuck in ruts about issues?
How do (the other) words relate to orthodoxy and orthopraxy?
Is there really a right way and a wrong way to worship God?
How do we as people of God determine what is orthodox and what is not?
What things do we need to teach to those who are in the heterodoxy and heteropraxy categories?
Still up:
immanent transcendent apostasy propitiation heresy contingent
awe sovereignty judgment repentance blasphemy holiness trespass
love yearn sin fear righteousness mercy grace unity forgiveness
wisdom faith majesty glory discipline justice redemption
peace hope joy justification salvation blessed regeneration reconciliation
=============================
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
Winter Retreat dates: January 7-9, 21-23, or 28-30 (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Christmas Soiree dates: December 22 @ 6:30, Barnhart Abode (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night: December 28 (Mgr. Jake D)
Bowling Party: January or February—email your preference (Mgr. Jennifer M)
If you have questions or suggestions, contact the managers, or email tfbyam1@hotmail.com and your message will be forwarded.
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
=============================
SERMON NOTES—Reasons We Can Miss Christmas & Ways We Can Experience Christmas
Pastor Charlie, December 5, 2004
1A. WE CAN MISS CHRISTMAS BECAUSE OF BUSY PREOCCUPATION. Luke 2:7
1B. WE CAN EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS BY FOCUSING ON JESUS. Luke 2:15
2A. WE CAN MISS CHRISTMAS BECAUSE OF JEALOUS FEAR. Matthew 2:1-3
2B. WE CAN EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS BY SUBMITTING TO GOD. Luke 1:38; Matthew 1:24; Romans 10:9
3A. WE CAN MISS CHRISTMAS BECAUSE OF PRIDEFUL INDIFFERENCE. Matthew 2:4
3B. WE CAN EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS THROUGH A HUMBLE SEARCH FOR JESUS. Matthew 2:1-2; Jeremiah 29:13; Luke 11:9-10
4A. WE CAN MISS CHRISTMAS BECAUSE OF RELIGIOUS RITUAL.
4B. WE CAN EXPEREINCE CHRISTMAS THROUGH A RENEWED PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. Luke 2:25
5A. WE CAN MISS CHRISTMAS BECAUSE OF IDOLATRY. Luke 2:1; Mark 4:18-19
5B. WE CAN EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS THROUGH GENUINE WORSHIP. Luke 2:20; Matthew 2:11; Luke 1:31; 32; 35).
AMONG ALL THE REASONS FOR WHY PEOPLE MISS CHRISTMAS, UNBELIEF IS AT THE CORE.
“But although the world was made through Him, the world didn’t recognize Him when He came. Even in His own land and among His own people, He was not accepted. But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:10-12, NLT).
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB “Christmas Celebration”
TFB “Christmas Celebration” December 12, 6:00 p.m.
TFB kids musical “A Star Is Born” December 18 & 19, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Christmas Soiree, December 22 @ 6:30 pm at the Barnhart Abode (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night , December 28, time TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Bowling, TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
BBQ (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week ending December 5, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor (Laura1), send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB “Christmas Celebration”
=============================
HOLY VOCAB—Getting past fancy talk!
“That's just fancy talk SpongeBob! Hey! You know what? If you want to act fancy, just put your pinky up!” – the wisdom of Patrick
Research the basic defs in the American Heritage Dictionary
orthodoxy
heterodoxy
heteropraxy
orthopraxy
Make it Plain: translate into language that, say, a fourth grader could understand.
Who cares?
Still up:
apostasy--holiness-trespass-faith-propitiation-sovereignty-transcendent-love--yearn-
sin-majesty-glory-fear-awe -judgment-discipline-righteousness-justice-mercy-
peace-grace-repentance-hope-joy-blasphemy-unity-immanent-contingent-
forgiveness-salvation-blessed-wisdom-heresy
=============================
UPDATE! –and now for a word from the Project Managers…
Winter Retreat dates: January 7-9, 21-23, or 28-30 (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
Christmas Soiree dates: December 17, 18, 22, or 29 (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night: December 21 or 27 (Mgr. Jake D)
If you have questions or suggestions, contact the managers, or email tfbyam1@hotmail.com and your message will be forwarded.
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB “Christmas Celebration”
TFB “Christmas Celebration” December 12, 6:00 p.m.
TFB kids musical “A Star Is Born” December 18 & 19, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Bowling, December TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
Elegant Christmas Party, December TBA (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
BBQ (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week ending November 28, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor (Laura1), send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH… putting it together…
THE QUESTIONS THAT REMAIN…
HOLY VOCAB—More than pinkies and fancy talk!
UPDATE! …and now for a word from the Project Managers…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB Bell Noel
=============================
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH… putting it together…
A front porch is the transitional space between the personal/intimate space of the house and the public/social space of the street. It is a space where perfect strangers are free to interact and join in community, if only for a moment between sips of iced tea.
All right, we’ve studied front porch elements—love, reach, belong, grow, serve, and worship—and we’ve looked at how the front porch fits with our mission—know the story, be the people, expand the kingdom—so now it’s time to put a bit of feet on the whole thing. This coming Sunday (Nov. 28) we’ll take a close look at the TFB Patio Ministry using what we’ve learned during the past seven weeks. Be sure and get a worksheet from Laura1 Sunday before the patio time.
Patio Evaluation:
- Movement
- Space
- Conduct
- Recommendations
=============================
THE QUESTIONS THAT REMAIN…
How will visitors to the front porch know that we know Jesus?
How should we act toward each other on the front porch?
How can we help others belong on the front porch?
What should our attitude be toward others on the front porch?
How should we support others on the front porch?
What should the atmosphere be on the front porch?
=============================
HOLY VOCAB—More than pinkies and fancy talk!
“That's just fancy talk SpongeBob! Hey! You know what? If you want to act fancy, just put your pinky up!” – the wisdom of Patrick
First up:
orthodoxy
heterodoxy
heteropraxy
orthopraxy
Do some prep work:
American Heritage Dictionary
Wikipedia
NET Bible Search Tool
apostasy-yearn-sin-majesty-glory-fear-awe-holiness-trespass-judgment-discipline-
righteousness-justice-mercy-faith-propitiation-sovereignty-peace-grace-repentance-
hope-joy-blasphemy-unity-immanent-contingent-transcendent-love-forgiveness-
salvation-blessed-wisdom-heresy
=============================
UPDATE! …and now for a word from the Project Managers…
- Possible Winter Retreat date: January 7-9 (Mgrs: Daniel and Danny)
- Possible Christmas Soiree dates: December 17, 18, 22, or 29 (Mgr: JJ P)
If you have questions or suggestions, contact the managers, or email tfbyam1@hotmail.com and your message will be forwarded.
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB Bell Noel
TFB Bell Noel, December 5, 6:00 p.m.
TFB “Christmas Celebration” December 12, 6:00 p.m.
TFB kids musical “A Star Is Born” December 18 & 19, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Bowling, December TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
Elegant Christmas Party, December TBA (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
BBQ (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week of November 21, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor, send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
WORSHIP! – Share your creations
BEING COMMUNITY— Building the Front Porch—the Blueprint
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
JUST AROUND THE CORNER—“Holy Vocab!” What does THAT mean?
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
SERMON NOTES— 40 Days of Community: What We Have Learned
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB 90th anniversary
=============================
WORSHIP! – Share your creations
Share your Psalm 22:23-29 worship element.
- at the collegium
- in the comments
=============================
BEING COMMUNITY— Building the Front Porch—the Blueprint
What’s the question? (What question does the verse answer?)
Loving: How will visitors to the front porch know that we know Jesus? John 13:35
Reaching: How should we act toward each other on the front porch? Colossians 4:5
Belonging: How can we help others belong onthe front porch? Romans 12:5
Growing: What should our attitude be toward others on the front porch? 1 Thessalonians 5:11
Serving: How should we support others on the front porch? Galatians 6:2
Worshiping: What should the atmosphere be on the front porch? Leviticus 23:3
Share your questions, and then consider:
How does a front porch event-space help us live our intention…
to know the story?
to be the people?
to expand the Kingdom?
According to Danny the answer to each question is environment. In the front porch environment, you know both the facts and the people in God's story. In the front porch environment, you learn what it means to be God's people. In the front porch environment, you expand the depth of the kingdom by becoming better Christ followers (houseside reach) and you expand the breadth of the kingdom by adding more Christ followers (streetside reach).
=============================
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
A front porch is the transitional space between the personal/intimate space of the house and the public/social space of the street. It is a space where perfect strangers are free to interact and join in community, if only for a moment between sips of iced tea.
The questions that remain…
[to be completed…]
=============================
JUST AROUND THE CORNER—“Holy Vocab!” What does THAT mean?
Coming in December, we’ll take a closer look at some biblical/theological terms that we often take for granted. Here’s the list so far:
apostasy-yearn-sin-majesty-glory-fear-awe-holiness-trespass-judgment-discipline-
righteousness-justice-mercy-faith-propitiation-sovereignty-peace-grace-repentance-
hope-joy-blasphemy-unity-immanent-contingent-transcendent-heteropraxy-orthopraxy-
heterodoxy-orthodoxy-love-forgiveness-salvation-blessed-wisdom-heresy
Pick ten words you would like to know more about. Send your list to Laura (in person, via email at tfbyam1@hotmail.com or in the online comments)
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
SERMON NOTES— 40 Days of Community: What We Have Learned
Pastor Charlie
“Remember what you’ve learned about the Lord through your experiences with Him”
(Deuteronomy 11:2, TEV).
About Fellowshipping Together: Romans 12:5; James 3:18
About Growing Together: Ephesians 2:2; Ephesians 4:13
About Serving Together: Galatians 6:10; 1 Corinthians 3:9
About Reaching Out Together: James 1:27; Romans 10:13-14
About Worshiping Together: John 4:23; 2 Chronicles 16:9; Hebrews 10:25
=============================
WHAT I SAY—Your words can be here!
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB 90th anniversary
Torrance First Baptist, 90th anniversary celebration, November 21 @ 6 pm
(complete with a film by our own Dan P)
TFB Bell Noel, December 5, 6:00 p.m.
TFB “Christmas Celebration” December 12, 6:00 p.m.
TFB kids musical “A Star Is Born” December 18 & 19, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24, 7:00 p.m.
TFB Combined Worship Service, December 26, 10:00 a.m. (no Collegium)
Bowling, December TBA (Mgr: Jennifer M)
Elegant Christmas Party, December TBA (Mgr: JJ P)
Movie Night TBA (Mgr: Jake D)
BBQ (Mgr: Daniel and Danny)
Winter Retreat, January TBA (MGr: Daniel and Danny)
Summer Retreat, TBA (Mgr: Jeff B)
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week of November 14, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor, send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
THINK! – What are we worshiping?
MEMORIZE!! Leviticus 23:3
BEING COMMUNITY— The Front Porch is a place to worship
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
STUFF ON PSALMS—Keys to the apparently repetitious poetry of God
JUST AROUND THE CORNER—“Holy Vocab!” What does THAT mean?
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
SERMON NOTES— How To Tell God You Love Him
WHAT I SAY—God Will Fulfill His Promises, by Stef M
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB 90th anniversary
=============================
THINK! – What are we worshiping?
There are entire congregations who worship praise and praise worship but who have not yet learned to praise and worship God in Jesus Christ. The song, the dance, the banners have been accepted as worship instead of being seen as a means of expressing worship. -- Judson Cornwall
[Source: Jordon Cooper’s quote page]
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MEMORIZE!! Leviticus 23:3
THIS WEEK
The Front Porch is a place to worship: Leviticus 23:3
ALREADY IN THE BRAIN!
The Front Porch is all about Love: John 13:35
The Front Porch reaches out streetside: Colossians 4:5
On the Front Porch, it’s easy to belong: Romans 12:5
The Front Porch is a place to grow: 1 Thessalonians 5:11
The Front Porch is a place to serve together: Galatians 6:2
=============================
BEING COMMUNITY— The Front Porch is a place to worship
November 14: The Front Porch is a place to worship, Psalm 22:23-29
CORE TRUTH: Fearers praise Yahweh because he is merciful; all will worship Yahweh because he is King.
v.23-26: Those who fear Yahweh are called to praise him because he has given mercy to all who are afflicted and needy.
v.27-29: Everyone, from the richest to the poorest, from the strongest to the weakest, will worship Yahweh because he is King and Ruler.
STUDY
There are two groups of worshipers mentioned in this Psalm:
- v.23-26 “those who fear”
- v.27-29 “the ends of the earth”
For each section:
- circle words or phrases about God
- underline words or phrases about our response
What kinds of things are included in the people’s praise?
Using your findings, work with your group to write three biblical guidelines for a worship event.
1.
2.
3.
ADDITIONAL READING: Read Stef’s article on Isaiah 6 for a good picture of how serious God is about his worship!
COMING:
November 21: Building the Front Porch—the Blueprint
=============================
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
A front porch is the transitional space between the personal/intimate space of the house and the public/social space of the street. It is a space where perfect strangers are free to interact and join in community, if only for a moment between sips of iced tea.
We’re working on three front porch projects:
1. A Front Porch event in December: bowling
2. A Front Porch space: creatively thinking about how we might help the 10:30 TFB "coffee time" to be a front porch space.
3. An elegant, catered Christmas party.
WORSHIP WORKSHEET
Brainstorm:
- celebration elements:
- contemplation elements:
- confession elements:
- challenge elements:
The Sketch
LOVE
buddy love
family love
sacrificial love
REACH
front porch streetside events
front porch houseside events
BELONG
comfy
refuge
conversation
GROW
hang out
love-walk-keep
SERVE
Mercy = a real need + a real solution
=============================
STUFF ON PSALMS—Keys to the apparently repetitious poetry of God
(Excerpted from What Is a Psalm?)
Psalms are about experience, expression, and emotion.
Psalms (which are songs, by the way, not poems) tend to be repetitious. That’s because parallelism is a feature of this type of Hebrew writing. Here are some types of parallelism:
Synonymous parallelism: the first line is echoed in the second, with only a slight change of terms
Psalm 2:1
Why do the nations rage
and the peoples plot in vain?
Antithetical parallelism: the words of the first line are affirmed in the second, not by repetition, but by contrast
Psalm 1:6
for the LORD knows the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.
Climactic parallelism: the second line refines, develops and completes the thought of the first
Psalm 96:7
Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the peoples,
ascribe to the LORD glory and strength!
Synthetic parallelism: the second line develops the thought of the first, but without quoting words from the first line (as does climactic parallelism)
Psalm 95:6
Oh come, let us worship and bow down;
let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!
Emblematic parallelism: the first line introduces a figure of speech which is explained in the second
Psalm 42:1
As a deer pants for flowing streams,
so pants my soul for you, O God
Formal relationship (parallelism): the first and second lines have only a formal, structural relationship—more a relationship of proximity (neighbors, so to speak), than of logic or sequence of thought
Psalm 109:1
Be not silent, O God of my praise!
=============================
JUST AROUND THE CORNER—“Holy Vocab!” What does THAT mean?
Coming in December, we’ll take a closer look at some biblical/theological terms that we often take for granted. Here’s the list so far:
Pick ten words you would like to know more about.
Send your list to Laura (in person, via email at tfbyam1@hotmail.com, or in the online comments)
apostasy
yearn
sin
majesty
glory
fear
awe
holiness
trespass
judgment
discipline
righteousness
justice
mercy
faith
propitiation
sovereignty
peace
grace
repentance
hope
joy
blasphemy
unity
immanent
contingent
transcendent
heteropraxy
orthopraxy
heterodoxy
orthodoxy
love
forgiveness
salvation
blessed
wisdom
heresy
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
SERMON NOTES— How To Tell God You Love Him
Pastor Charlie
“…Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment”
(Matthew 22:3, NIV).
Expressing my love to God is called WORSHIPPING. Revelation 5:11-13
WE EXPRESS OUR LOVE TO GOD BY:
SINGING TO HIM. Psalm 147:7; Psalm 66:8; Psalm 95:1
Regularly – Occasionally - Rarely
TALKING TO HIM. Psalm 116:1-2
Regularly – Occasionally - Rarely
LISTENING TO HIM. Leviticus 23:3; Proverbs 11:4; John 10:14-16
PUBLICLY IDENTIFYING WITH HIM. Mark 8:38; Matthew 5:14-15
Regularly – Occasionally - Rarely
- through COMMUNION:
- through BAPTISM Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:12; Galatians 3:27
BEING COMMITTED TO HIM. Joshua 24:20-22-25; Romans 12:1
Regularly – Occasionally - Rarely
GIVING TO HIM. Acts 4:32-35; 1 Corinthians 8:7-8
Regularly – Occasionally - Rarely
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WHAT I SAY—God Will Fulfill His Promises, by Stef M
Isaiah 6 is of the vision account genre of writing, meaning that the information stems from a vision that Isaiah has in which God speaks to him. It appears in the first section of Isaiah (chapters 1 through 39), which deals primarily with the rebellion of God’s people Israel and God’s resulting judgment. A precursor to this chapter is how the people of Israel (and Judah, which broke off from Israel) have continually broken their covenant with God through idolatry, sexual immorality, and lackadaisical worship to God. Because the people assume that the covenant is unconditional, God elects people such as Isaiah to send a prophetic critique; that is, to warn the people that they are doing wrong in the eyes of the Lord and they will surely not get away with it as they believed they would.
Isaiah 6 opens with one of the most memorable scenes in the entire book: Isaiah sees the Lord seated on a throne, glorious and wonderful, surrounded by seraphim who proclaim, “Holy, Holy, Holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.” This imagery shows how truly marvelous God is, and sets up the idea that He is deserving of praise and obedience. The three-time repetition by the seraphim of the word “holy” draws special attention to God’s sanctity and the idea that He alone is worthy and set apart from other gods. Because the glory of the LORD fills “the whole earth” and the very foundation of the temple shakes and fills with smoke, God’s dominion and omnipotence are also conveyed. This simple, yet elegant scene described in verses 1 through 4 has thus established has established God’s majesty and power over all the earth.
Isaiah’s reaction to this magnificent sight is one of terror and humility. He recognizes his own sins, as well as those of the people around him, and knows that since he has seen the face of the LORD he deserves death. Isaiah expects God’s judgment, but because he has admitted his shortcomings God shows forgiveness by sending one of the seraphs to symbolically atone for his sins by touching a coal to his lips. This action is parallel to God’s covenant and shows that God is indeed willing to forgive if only people will turn from their wicked ways.
At this point the election of Isaiah as a prophet occurs as he answers God’s call for a messenger with an enthusiastic, “I’ll go. Send me!” Isaiah’s obedience provides a sharp contrast to the malpractices of the people of Israel and sets him up as a “mouthpiece for God who calls the king and the people to radical accountability to the covenant.” Consequently, God gives him a forthtelling oracle in verse 10 to tell the people of Israel that they are “ever hearing but never understanding” and “ever seeing, but never perceiving.” A foretelling prophecy denotes an occurrence that is happening at the present time, and in this case shows that the Jews have not repented and therefore will receive judgment. The description of how the people wear “blindfolds” and put their “fingers in their ears” perhaps shows the way they react to the word of God; his law is present, although in their ignorance and laziness they are blind and deaf to its true meaning.
Verse 10, in which heart, ears and eyes are used to describe the Israelites, uses a literary format commonly used in the Old Testament known as a “chiastic” arrangement, in which words are organized as a-b-c/c-b-a. This arrangement gives emphasis to the almost sardonic description that God gives of Israel, that His commands and blessings are attainable, yet the people have refused to accept and live them out because of their inability to “hear or see.” The description conveyed through Isaiah may be described as a prophetic critique, for Isaiah is forced to chastise Israel for their half-hearted worship of God.
God then expresses how he wants to make the people have “calloused hearts” or else they might realize their inequities and be healed. It is not that God desires the people to ignore him; on the contrary, he simply wants to make them aware of how much they truly need him. Time after time the people have been warned of what will happen if they continue to ignore their fulfillment of the covenant, and now God wishes them to remain obstinate so they He may go ahead and destroy the people so that a new community of more faithful people may rise up from the group of survivors.
In verse 11 Isaiah asks how long he must tell this prophecy to the people of Israel, and God gives him a foretelling oracle that the people will not listen, but he must persevere and prophesy until the judgment comes and the “cities lie ruined…the fields ruined and ravaged.” The destruction of the land is foretold by God through Isaiah as a punishment for the breaking of the covenant. However, God does offer hope that there will be a remnant, “perhaps a tenth” of the people, that will survive, and although they too will undergo destruction, they will be the beginning of a new era. God uses the metaphor of a forest with all its trees cut down but with a “holy seed” remaining amidst the stumps. The cut down trees symbolize the mass judgment and devastation God will bring upon the Jews, but the holy seed is a small yet faithful group of people that will one day rise up into a “tree.”
Isaiah 6 is a chapter full of the awe and fear that God inspires. The majesty that Isaiah is allowed to witness shows that forgiveness is possible, yet the oracle Isaiah receives from God and then prophetically critiques to Israel about their upcoming destruction demonstrates God’s steadfastness to the covenant. Despite the many sins of Israel and Judah and their need for cleansing, God will still never forget them completely, for he allows a remnant to come out of the chaos, a “holy seed” out of the desecrated forest of God’s people.
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
SUNDAY COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
TUESDAY BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB 90th anniversary
Torrance First Baptist, 90th anniversary celebration, November 21 @ 6 pm
(complete with a film by our own Dan P)
Bowling, December TBA
Christmas Party, December TBA
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week of November 7, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor, send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
EVENTS—next up: TFB 90th anniversary
THINK! – What is true mercy?
MEMORIZE!! Galatians 6:2
BEING COMMUNITY— The Front Porch is a place to serve together
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
JUST AROUND THE CORNER—“Holy Vocab!” What does THAT mean?
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
SERMON NOTES—Serving Together
=============================
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
SUNDAY COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
TUESDAY BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
=============================
EVENTS—next up: TFB 90th anniversary
Torrance First Baptist, 90th anniversary celebration, November 21 @ 6 pm
(complete with a film by our own Dan P)
Bowling, December TBA
Christmas Party, December TBA
=============================
THINK! – What is true mercy?
“…he who loves men must needs hate with a burning hatred all that does wrong to human beings, and that, in point of fact, Jesus never wavered in his consistent resentment of the special wrong-doing which he was called upon to witness… the paradox [is] that true mercy is no less the product of anger than of pity.” by B.B. Warfield, The Person and Work of Christ, p. 122
What wrongs do humans do to each other?
What do you think are the greatest wrongs happening today?
How do you feel about it?
=============================
MEMORIZE!! Galatians 6:2
THIS WEEK
The Front Porch is a place to serve together: Galatians 6:2
UPCOMING
The Front Porch is a place to worship: Leviticus 23:3
SHOULD BE MEMORIZED
The Front Porch is all about Love: John 13:35
The Front Porch reaches out streetside: Colossians 4:5
On the Front Porch, it’s easy to belong: Romans 12:5
The Front Porch is a place to grow: 1 Thessalonians 5:11
=============================
BEING COMMUNITY— The Front Porch is a place to serve together
November 7: The Front Porch is a place to serve together, Luke 10:25-37
Core Truth: The life full of eternal life loves God completely and loves others by freely giving mercy.
v.25-28: The life full of eternal life loves God completely and loves neighbor necessarily
v.29-37: The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches that one is neighbor to whomever one shows mercy.
Read v.30-37 and create a mime or skit of the story. Perform your skit for friends, then discuss:
What did it feel like to be the man/robbers/priest/Levite/Samaritan/innkeeper?
Why do you think he did what he did?
How did Jesus’ story answer the lawyer’s question?
COMING:
November 14: The Front Porch is a place to worship, Psalm 22:23-29
November 21: Building the Front Porch
=============================
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
A front porch is the transitional space between the personal/intimate space of the house and the public/social space of the street. It is a space where perfect strangers are free to interact and join in community, if only for a moment between sips of iced tea.
We’re working on two front porch projects:
1. A Front Porch event in December: bowling
2. A Front Porch space: creatively thinking about how we might help the 10:30 TFB "coffee time" to be a front porch space.
LOVE
buddy love
family love
sacrificial love
REACH
front porch streetside events
front porch houseside events
BELONG
comfy
refuge
conversation
GROW
hang out
love-walk-keep
SERVE
Mercy = a real need + a real solution
What are the real needs of our community (in and out)?
What are some real solutions?
=============================
JUST AROUND THE CORNER—“Holy Vocab!” What does THAT mean?
Coming in December, we’ll take a closer look at some biblical/theological terms that we often take for granted. Here’s the list so far:
The List
apostasy
yearn
sin
majesty
glory
fear
awe
holiness
trespass
judgment
discipline
righteousness
justice
mercy
faith
propitiation
sovereignty
peace
grace
repentance
hope
joy
blasphemy
unity
immanent
contingent
transcendent
heteropraxy
orthopraxy
heterodoxy
orthodoxy
love
forgiveness
salvation
blessed
wisdom
heresy
Any to add???
=============================
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
=============================
SERMON NOTES—Serving Together
Pastor Charlie
“…agree with each other, loving one another,
and working together with one heart and purpose”
(Philippians 2:2, NLT).
WHY SERVE TOGETHER?
We are family. 1 Corinthians 3:9
We need each other. Romans 12:5
We get more done. Ecclesiastes 4:9; 1 Corinthians 3:8
WHAT IT TAKES TO SERVE AS A T.E.A.M.
T RUST 1 Timothy 6:20; Proverbs 20:6
BEING CONSISTENT Luke 16:10
BEING CONFIDENTIAL Proverbs 11:1
BEING CLOSE Proverbs 17:17
E MPATHY. 1 Peter 3:8
SLOW DOWN. James 1:19
ASK QUESTIONS. Proverbs 20:5
SHOW EMOTIONS. Romans 12:15
A CCOMODATE 2 Timothy 2:22; Romans 12:18
EACH OTHER’S NEEDS Romans 15:2
EACH OTHER’S IDEAS Proverbs 18:15
EACH OTHER’S FAULTS Ephesians 4:2
M ISSION. Philippians 2:2; Hebrews 10:2; Philippians 1:27; Genesis 11:6
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
= = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
Week of October 31, 2004
Know the story…Be the people…Expand the Kingdom.
If you would like to contribute to the eNews or converse with the editor, send an email to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
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IN THE eNEWS THIS WEEK
REGULAR HAPPENINGS
THINK! – What does it take to grow?
MEMORIZE!!
BEING COMMUNITY—The Front Porch is a place to grow
BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
REVIEWS—Put yours here…
SERMON NOTES—How We Help Each Other Grow
WHAT I SAY—Jesus and the Kingdom, by Stefanie M
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REGULAR HAPPENINGS
WORSHIP GATHERING @ 9:15 am—Main Worship Center
“COFFEE HOUSE” @ 10:30ish—TFB Courtyard
SUNDAY COLLEGIUM @ 11 am—TFB College Room
TUESDAY BIBLE STUDY @ 7:15-9:00 pm on Tuesdays— TFB College Room
Paul’s Letter to the Philippians
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THINK! – What does it take to grow?
Review memory verses and think back to what we’ve learned about love (John 13:35), disciple-making (Colossians 4:5), and belonging (Romans 12:5).
From what you’re learning, what do you think it takes to grow as a Christ-follower?
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MEMORIZE!!
THIS WEEK
The Front Porch is a place to grow: 1 Thessalonians 5:11
UPCOMING
The Front Porch is a place to serve together: Galatians 6:2
The Front Porch is a place to worship: Leviticus 23:3
SHOULD BE MEMORIZED
The Front Porch is all about Love: John 13:35
The Front Porch reaches out streetside: Colossians 4:5
On the Front Porch, it’s easy to belong: Romans 12:5
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BEING COMMUNITY—The Front Porch is a place to grow
October 31: The Front Porch is a place to grow, Deuteronomy 30:11-16
Core Truth: God has put his will in our very being; the community that obeys God’s will flourishes, while the community that disobeys God’s will fails.
v.11-14 You’ve got everything you need
v.15 This is serious
v.16 Three parts: love, walk, keep
Love: the tending of the will toward the good of the other.
Walk: the long term tendency of the will as seen in attitudes, behaviors, and emotions.
Keep: treasuring something to the extent that life is lived in conformity to that something.
Look back at your “Christ-follower” list (done in “THINK”).
What would you add?
What would you change?
Compare group and personal practice with your list. What grade (A-F) would you give?
TFB:
College Group:
Yourself:
November 7: The Front Porch is a place to serve together, Luke 10:25-37
November 14: The Front Porch is a place to worship, Psalm 22:23-29
November 21: Building the Front Porch
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BUILDING A FRONT PORCH…
A front porch is the transitional space between the personal/intimate space of the house and the public/social space of the street. It is a space where perfect strangers are free to interact and join in community, if only for a moment between sips of iced tea.
We’re working on two front porch projects:
1. A Front Porch event in December: bowling
2. A Front Porch space: creatively thinking about how we might help the 10:30 TFB "coffee time" to be a front porch space.
BELONGING ELEMENTS: WHAT HELPS PEOPLE FELL COMFORTABLE?
Sunken den
Raffle
College space downstairs
Incandescent lighting
Rocking chairs
Iced tea
Dog
Weber kettle
Leaving the space a bit dirty
Games
Banjo
Food
Beverages
CREATE/GATHER SOME GROW ELEMENTS:
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REVIEWS—Put yours here…
[This space left sadly blank…]
Here's how to do it:
- Give the movie/restaurant/TV show/whatever a rating of 1-5 stars (5 being best)
- Describe the story/style
- Explain your rating, why it was good or bad
- Send your review to tfbyam1@hotmail.com
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SERMON NOTES—How We Help Each Other Grow
Pastor Charlie
“From the very beginning, God decided that those who came to Him--
and all along He knew who would--should become like His Son…”
(Romans 8:29, LB).
“Encourage one another and build each other up…”
(1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV).
WE HELP EACH OTHER GROW BY AFFIRMING EACH OTHER’S WORTH.
By showing ACCEPTANCE: Romans 15:7; Romans 14:10
By giving ATTENTION: Galatians 6:10
By showing AFFECTION: Romans 12:10
By showing APPRECIATION: 1 Thessalonians 5:12
WE HELP EACH OTHER GROW BY PRAYING FOR EACH OTHER’S GROWTH. Colossians 4:12; Ephesians 3:18-19; Hebrews 13:21; Romans 15:13; Ephesians 1:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:5; Ephesians 3:16
WE CAN HELP EACH OTHER GROW BY ADMITTING OUR OWN MISTAKES. Ephesians 4:25
Benefits of honesty:
Emotional healing James 5:16
A fresh start Proverbs 28:13
Deeper fellowship 1 John 1:7
WE CAN HELP EACH OTHER GROW BY ENCOURAGING EACH OTHER’S DEVOTION. 1 Timothy 4:7; Romans 1:12
“Helping people become fully devoted followers of Christ”
Devotion to SHARING the good news of Christ with others
Devotion to MODELING Christ in all aspects of our lives
Devotion to ENGAGING in loving relationships with other believers
Devotion to SURRENDERING our lives joyfully to God
Devotion to SERVING God and others with our abilities and resources
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WHAT I SAY—Jesus and the Kingdom, by Stefanie M
Share the knowledge! It you’d like to contribute a paper to the eNews, send a copy to tfbyam1@hotmail.com. All topics considered!
Jesus enters his ministry during an interesting time in Jewish history. The Jews had already broken their initial covenant with God, and as a result were allowed to undergo exile by the Babylonians and the subsequent oppression by Rome. Throughout these difficult times, many prophets talked about the eschatological salvation of the Jews; in other words, of a future time when once again they would be given hope and freedom as the chosen people of the Kingdom of God.
When the Jews envisioned their savior, they pictured a strong, courageous warrior, someone who would lead them to a bloody victory against Rome. The savior would then bring righteousness and peace, as well as the reestablishment of a new covenant between Israel and God. This assumption is somewhat understandable, since the redeemer was prophesied to descend from the line of the heroic David. But surprisingly enough, the “savior” of the Jews appears unlike anything they expected, in the humble form of Jesus, the son of a simple carpenter from little Bethlehem. It is as a result of this sharp contrast of expectation versus reality that Jesus begins his ministry about the Kingdom of God. Jesus does in fact plan to bring about a new covenant for the people with God, but not as a warrior as the Jews had thought. Although many of the Jews were still waiting for their redeemer to come, it is the purpose of the Gospel of Matthew to declare that He- as well as the Kingdom of God- is in fact already here.
Matthew 13 is perhaps the best example of Jesus’ discourse about the Kingdom. It contains a number of parables spoken to the disciples and the crowds, all which are central to Jesus’ ministry and have the purpose of teaching something about the Kingdom. The first three parables all describe the Kingdom of heaven as a seed, whether simply as a “good” seed or as a mustard seed. This comparison shows how the Kingdom of God, meaning the knowledge of who Jesus is and the salvation He offers, will start off as discreet as a tiny mustard seed, but will later flourish and thrive as people learn the truth. Jesus also uses the parables of the seeds to indicate the different responses to his offer of the Kingdom. Some will hear the news and not understand it, because Satan will not allow them to, just as some seeds are thrown on the path and are gobbled up by birds. Others spring up quickly in joy at the news, just as a seed on rocky soil, but then wither and die quickly the first time they are faced with trials. Jesus gives other possible reactions as those “choked by weeds”- or the worries and busyness of life, and also the response compared to the seed in the good soil, which produced crops of plenty. Every listener to Jesus’ teachings falls into one of these categories. The Pharisees may perhaps be those “choked by weeds,” for they are so concerned with the Law that they fail to see the fulfillment of the Law who stands in front of them in the form of Jesus. Most of the disciples may be placed in the group described as the “seeds that landed on good soil,” for in time they recognize Jesus as the bringer of the Kingdom of God, and many sacrifice their lives in order to tell as many as possible the good news.
The final parable discussing the Kingdom in terms of seeds describes the Son of Man as a sower of good seed (the sons of the kingdom) in a field (the world). Then the enemy (Satan) plants weeds (“sons of the evil one”) among the good crops, which must remain until the harvest (end time). Jesus then ends the parable with His own victory as the Son of Man, who is in fact Jesus Himself, throws the weeds into the “fiery furnace.” Jesus uses this parable to teach that He, the Son of Man, is the one who will reap victory in the end, just as prophesied. However, He explains that just as the weeds and crops must endure together until the harvest, so must the people be patient in their wait for salvation from Rome, and accept that the Kingdom is in fact the present redemption available in Jesus.
Similarly, Jesus also talks about the Kingdom of Heaven as yeast, which is kneaded through a whole batch of dough. Once again, this symbolizes how it will take time for the news of who Jesus is to catch on, but soon everyone will hear about Him, whether they choose to accept the implications of His coming or not. Jesus uses this parable to explain that although He tries to keep His identity secret for now so He may fulfill His ministry in the ordained time, inevitably everyone will hear about who He is.
Jesus discusses another aspect of the Kingdom through his parable of the treasure in the field and the parable of the pearl. In each parable, a man is willing to give up all he has, for he knows that the treasure (or the pearl) is worth so much more. These two parables are very similar in that they relate the Kingdom of God not to a physical salvation from the oppression of Rome, but rather to a spiritual salvation that is here and now. To accept Jesus as the coming of the Kingdom of God, everything that might hinder obedience and faithfulness must be given up. However, just as the treasure and the pearl were worth so much more than other material wealth, so is the Kingdom worth the sacrifice of anything on this earth. Jesus tells through this parable that the new covenant is here, and that it is worth more than any of the Jews and disciples could imagine.
The final parable of Matthew 13 describes the Kingdom as a net used to catch all kinds of fish. Later the fishermen sort through the fish and separate good from bad, just as the angels will separate good from the wicked at the end times. Although this parable denotes the judgment of the end times, Jesus makes the connection that the Kingdom collects “all kinds of fish”- meaning that Jesus can save Jews, Gentiles, disciples, whoever will accept that he is the bringer of the Kingdom of God.
The final reference to the Kingdom in Matthew 13 is Jesus’ comment to the disciples that “every teacher of the law who has been instructed about the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old” (v. 52). In this final comment, by placing the new and old treasures together, Jesus alludes to the idea that He does not declare Himself as the new replacement to the old Law of Moses; rather, He is the fulfillment of the Law and works alongside the Law in all He does. Many of the Jews were horrified by the actions of Jesus that contradicted their beloved Law. Through this statement Jesus makes clear that He is the embodiment of the Law, and therefore does not intend to contradict it, but rather to overthrow the current image of God and the covenant and to declare Himself as the fulfillment of the new covenant with God. It is this idea that is central to the teachings of Jesus, that the Kingdom is the new covenant of spiritual salvation made available here and now by Jesus. Indeed, the Kingdom of God is near, for it is Jesus Himself that brings it about.
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