May 25, 2014 | Sunday Service Report

Welcome to the Nathan report!
I would like to start today's report with a beautiful photo-verse... 

Okay, as usual we started with powerful praise and worship. Here is the list of today's songs:


1) Trading my sorrows - Darrell Evans

2) Look what the Lord has done - Bill & Gloria Gaither

3) 10,000 Reasons - Matt Redman

 

4) Jesus is the Lord - Antioch Community Church

5) Holy Holy Holy (Hosanna) - Hosanna Music

It was an awesome session. Church came to their knees while on the last number. As we move to the offerings, we have an announcement. Brother Clement is getting married and this was the third announcement.  

We move to the main sermon and as you all know, today is the last installment of this month's theme, "Holy Spirit". Pastor opened with a beautiful short story of a woman who thought her wristwatch is broken. She goes to the watchmaker who fixes within blink of few minutes. She gets surprised and asks what was the problem, on which the watchmaker responded "Batteries". She replied saying, "I always thought that I need to wind my watch every morning, but today I am surprised to know that my watch was working on battery."

Well, the point of this story is simple, many times we think we are the one who can take care of ourselves or have taken care so far. Well, the batteries give power to the watch to make it work. Without that power inside the watch just doesn’t work. Even though batteries are not a living person, batteries still remind us of the power of the Holy Spirit. In the same way a battery gives power to make a wristwatch show current time, the Holy Spirit gives power to believers to shine the light of Jesus and share the message of the future. The bible says that by ourselves we can’t love people very well and we can’t live the life that God has for us. By ourselves we are like this drained wrist watches that has no power. But Jesus said he, would send us the Holy Spirit who would give us power to live for God and to shine the light of Christ. Let’s ask God to fill us with his Holy Spirit. that we would have the power to live for Jesus and let his light shine in our lives.

Baptism of Holy Spirit

The baptism of the Holy Spirit: When we accept Christ as our savior, God takes up residence in our lives at that very moment.

The Holy Spirit comes into our lives and makes an immediate transformation within us;

as the Bible says, 2 Cor. 5:17 “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (NIV)

On the other hand, being filled with the Spirit or baptized in the Spirit is more than just He living within us.

As per the Scriptures that there is a subsequent spiritual experience called the “baptism in the Holy Spirit” or also referred as “being filled with the Spirit.” (Both mean the same.)

This filling of the Holy Spirit in any individual’s life is evidenced by “speaking in other tongues.”

For example see the scriptures:
Acts 2:4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. (NIV)
Acts 10:45-46 . . . the Holy Spirit [was] poured out even on the Gentiles. 46For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. (NIV)
Acts 19:6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied. (NIV)

First Corinthians 12:12-13 is the central passage in the Bible regarding the baptism of the Holy Spirit: “For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink” (1 Corinthians 12:13).Romans 6:1-4 describe the believer’s position before God in language similar to the 1 Corinthians passage: “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” 

It is a vital experience of the Christian life. It is a special work of the Spirit beyond salvation. On the Day of Pentecost, disciples who had already made a decision to follow Jesus and Holy spirit was residing in them, "were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues" (Acts 2:4). Paul asked the Ephesians disciples if they had received the Holy Spirit, after which "the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues" (Acts 19:2). New Testament believers were constantly challenged to be filled with the Spirit (Acts 1:4,5; Ephesians 5:18).

This baptism of Holy Spirit does three things:
Title: what does he do?

1. He empowers us to share our testimony (1 Cor. 2:1-5)
“When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.”

a. The Holy Spirit empowers us to share our testimony (V1-5)

b. The Holy Spirit helps to bring us to Christian Maturity (V6-16)
- Romans 8:26, "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.", ""

- Ephesians 2:18, "For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father."

Only the Holy Spirit knows the mind of Christ (V11)

The mind of Christ is a secret wisdom
The mind of Christ is a hidden wisdom

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him- but he has revealed it to us by his Spirit.

2. He empowers to serve.(Acts 1:8)
"But you will be my witnesses..."
The baptism in the Holy spirit is power to witness.

It is the ability to witness in several ways.
It is power to serve God anywhere.
" in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."(v8)
- Acts 1:8, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."

- Zechariah 4:4-7, "4 And I said to the angel who talked with me, “What are these, my lord?” 5 Then the angel who talked with me answered and said to me, “Do you not know what these are?” I said, “No, my lord.” 6 Then he said to me, “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts. 7 Who are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you shall become a plain. And he shall bring forward the top stone amid shouts of ‘Grace, grace to it!’”"

3. He empowers to speak.(Acts 1:2)
"after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen"(v2)

- Isaiah 61:1, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me,

    because the Lord has anointed me

to bring good news to the poor;[a]

    he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim liberty to the captives,

    and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;[b]"

Footnotes:

Isaiah 61:1 Or afflicted.

Isaiah 61:1 Or the opening [of the eyes] to those who are blind; Septuagint and recovery of sight to the blind.

Nothing can take the place of the Holy Spirit's work in the life of the believer. Through Him we are "heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ" (Romans 8:17), infinitely richer than all the billionaires of the world put together, because what we possess is not a passing thing, ours is an eternal inheritance.

Paul, quoting Isaiah, wrote, "Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Corinthians 2:9). Christians are rich beyond imagination. And the greatest resource of all, "The Holy Spirit", dwells in us and is with us forever. 

Do you want to live with real peace, contentment, and joy in life? Do you want to have the power to overcome temptation and persevere through adversity? This kind of victorious living is found only through total surrender and obedience to the Holy Spirit. Set your mind on the things of God, and trust the indwelling Spirit to guide, enable, and empower you to obey His voice. When we remain sensitive to the Spirit’s guidance, depend upon Him totally, and obey, we experience life at its very best. Jesus said, "He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" (John 7:38). It is our prayer that you all will experience the amazing life giving power of the Holy Spirit in your life and ministry. 

Before closing, we had a special prayer for the church members in need. While this powerful prayer session, we had three songs in the background, here they are:

Holy Spirit Rain Down - Hillsong United

More Love, More Power - Jeremy Riddle

Miracle Maker - Delirious?

We come down to the closing after this powerful prayer followed by a meet and greet session. I hope you enjoyed today service. How was yours, please comment below!

May 18, 2014 | Sunday Service Report

Welcome to THE NATHAN REPORT. A beautiful day indeed!

I am facing few issues with my internet, so I have taken long to make this report today. I am able to make it, so PRAISE GOD for that. 

Alright, as usual, we started off with with a powerful praise and worship session. Here is the list of today's songs:

1) Happy Day - Tim Hughes

2) This is how we overcome - Hillsong United

3) Spirit, touch your Church - Hosanna Music

4) Holy Spirit, rain down - Hillsong United

5) He Reigns - Newsboys

6) Awesome God - Rich Mullins

After wonderful praise and worship, we move on to announcements. Here are the announcements:

1- Women's fellowship will be held every last Saturday of every month at 4:30 PM at Hotel Avion.

2- Trip to one of the national state was successful, keep praying for all the believers who attended.

3- Again, we are seeking harvesters. Please let us know if you think this is your calling.  ("And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." - Luke 10:2). For more information, please log on to our official Church website by clicking to the church banner on the top right of this page.

As we move further, we have a video from the trip.What an amazing work of Holy Spirit, absolutely moving! It was a wonderful clip, which encouraged everybody at the Church. We move on to the offerings and a quick highlights from our Pastor that we read as we move further. Since two of our Church members joined Pastor on this trip, we have their testimonies.

Brother Ronnie

He mentioned few issues in that place, majorly poverty. But then there were few moving example of faith. One of them was a widow with 7 children, who invited around 20 guests for lunch. It was amazing which reminded of "Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath". For someone who is unaware of this story, may read 1 Kings 17:7-16

"7 And after a while the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land.8 Then the word of the Lord came to him, 9 “Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and dwell there. Behold, I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10 So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, a widow was there gathering sticks. And he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, that I may drink.” 11 And as she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12 And she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. And now I am gathering a couple of sticks that I may go in and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die.” 13 And Elijah said to her, “Do not fear; go and do as you have said. But first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterward make something for yourself and your son. 14 For thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘The jar of flour shall not be spent, and the jug of oil shall not be empty, until the day that the Lord sends rain upon the earth.’” 15 And she went and did as Elijah said. And she and he and her household ate for many days. 16 The jar of flour was not spent, neither did the jug of oil become empty, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah."

Church, let us ask Lord to fill our lives with strong faith such as this woman of faith. 

Sister Manasi

Another great testimony with an opening from Ephesians 6:13. I personally love this verse, so here also you can read the entire passage from Ephesians 6:10-20

"10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak."

She further mentioned three important points which might encourage all you readers as well.

1- Burning desire and walk in faith.

2- Pray in faith.

3- Willingness.

As we move ahead, Pastor Vivek Dindorkar gave a precise highlights regarding the trip, which I am going to mention in points to make it simple for our readers.

- No accessible roads and villagers have to travel miles to listen to the word of God and attend the Church.

- Even though people were calmly walking without bare foot, they were loud while praising God.

- Every member, every child was involved in praise and worship.

- Post service, there was a feast, raw soaked gram pulses.

- We ate it, everybody ate it. It was joyful  and we thanked Lord for this absolutely wonderful example of faith, sharing and love.

- This is best example to say, "When we lack, praise God, when we have in abundance, praise God."

- We need to be a Church like this, a first century Church.

- Pray and thank God for every blessings you have.

We move to the offering with a special snack of amazing worship numbers by a beautiful gospel artist brother Ashley Joseph. Here is one of the video:

You can checkout other videos as well as few wonderful testimonies on Ashley's channel by clicking here.

We move on to the main sermon. We have a guest pastor from Sri Lanka, Pastor David Balasingh. As you all know, this month's theme is "Holy Spirit and the gifts of Holy Spirit". 

Today main reading is taken from the book of Acts 1 and 2. 

Acts 1:

The Promise of the Holy Spirit

1 In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, 2 until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commands through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. 3 He presented himself alive to them after his suffering by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days and speaking about the kingdom of God.

4 And while staying[footnote] with them he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with[footnote] the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

The Ascension

6 So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 9 And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. 10 And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, 11 and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

Matthias Chosen to Replace Judas

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day's journey away. 13 And when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. 14 All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.[footnote]

15 In those days Peter stood up among the brothers (the company of persons was in all about 120) and said, 16 “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David concerning Judas, who became a guide to those who arrested Jesus. 17 For he was numbered among us and was allotted his share in this ministry.” 18 (Now this man acquired a field with the reward of his wickedness, and falling headlong[footnote] he burst open in the middle and all his bowels gushed out. 19 And it became known to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, so that the field was called in their own language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) 20 “For it is written in the Book of Psalms, “‘May his camp become desolate, and let there be no one to dwell in it’; and “‘Let another take his office.’ 21 So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” 23 And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen 25 to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.

Footnotes:

Acts 1:4 Or eating

Acts 1:5 Or in

Acts 1:14 Or brothers and sisters. The plural Greek word adelphoi (translated “brothers”) refers to siblings in a family. In New Testament usage, depending on the context, adelphoi may refer either to men or to both men and women who are siblings (brothers and sisters) in God's family, the church; also verse 15

Acts 1:18 Or swelling up 

Acts 2:

The Coming of the Holy Spirit

2 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested[footnote] on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

5 Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. 6 And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. 7 And they were amazed and astonished, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? 9 Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, 11 both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians—we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.” 12 And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?” 13 But others mocking said, “They are filled with new wine.”

Peter's Sermon at Pentecost

14 But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. 15 For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day.[footnote] 16 But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel: 17 “‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares,

that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh,

and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

    and your young men shall see visions,

    and your old men shall dream dreams;

18 even on my male servants[footnote] and female servants

    in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.

19 And I will show wonders in the heavens above

    and signs on the earth below,

    blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke;

20 the sun shall be turned to darkness

    and the moon to blood,

    before the day of the Lord comes, the great and magnificent day.

21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’

22 “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— 23 this Jesus,[footnote] delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. 24 God raised him up, loosing the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. 25 For David says concerning him,

“‘I saw the Lord always before me,

    for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken;

26 therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;

    my flesh also will dwell in hope.

27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,

    or let your Holy One see corruption.

28 You have made known to me the paths of life;

    you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’

29 “Brothers, I may say to you with confidence about the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. 30 Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants on his throne, 31 he foresaw and spoke about the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. 32 This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. 33 Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing. 34 For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says,

“‘The Lord said to my Lord,

“Sit at my right hand,

35     until I make your enemies your footstool.”’

36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

37 Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 40 And with many other words he bore witness and continued to exhort them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” 41 So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.

The Fellowship of the Believers

42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe[footnote] came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

Footnotes:

Acts 2:3 Or And tongues as of fire appeared to them, distributed among them, and rested

Acts 2:15 That is, 9 a.m.

Acts 2:18 Greek bondservants; twice in this verse

Acts 2:23 Greek this one

Acts 2:43 Or fear

Well, God can find hiding-places for his people. They made supplication. All God's people are praying people. It was now a time of trouble and danger with the disciples of Christ; but if any is afflicted, let him pray; that will silence cares and fears. They had now a great work to do, and before they entered upon it, they were earnest in prayer to God for his presence. They were waiting for the descent of the Spirit, and abounded in prayer. Those are in the best frame to receive spiritual blessings, who are in a praying frame. Christ had promised shortly to send the Holy Spirit that promise was not to do away prayer, but to quicken and encourage it. A little company united in love, exemplary in their conduct, fervent in prayer, and wisely zealous to promote the cause of Christ, are likely to increase rapidly. (Acts 1:15-26)

The great thing the apostles were to attest to the world, was, Christ's resurrection; for that was the great proof of his being the Messiah, and the foundation of our hope in him. The apostles were ordained, not to wordly dignity and dominion, but to preach Christ, and the power of his resurrection. An appeal was made to God; to Thou, Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, to which we do not; and better than they know their own. It is fit that God should choose his own servants; and so far as he, by the disposals of his providence, or the gifts of his Spirit, shows whom he was chosen, or what he has chosen for us, we ought to fall in with his will. Let us own his hand in the determining everything which befalls us, especially in those by which any trust may be committed to us.

We cannot forget how often, while their Master was with them there were strifes among the disciples which should be the greatest; but now all these strifes were at an end. They had prayed more together of late. Would we have the Spirit poured out upon us from on high, let us be all of one accord. And notwithstanding differences of sentiments and interests, as there were among those disciples, let us agree to love one another; for where brethren dwell together in unity, there the Lord commands his blessing. A rushing mighty wind came with great force. This was to signify the powerful influences and working of the Spirit of God upon the minds of men, and thereby upon the world. Thus the convictions of the Spirit make way for his comforts; and the rough blasts of that blessed wind, prepare the soul for its soft and gentle gales. There was an appearance of something like flaming fire, lighting on every one of them, according to John Baptist's saying concerning Christ; He shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. The Spirit, like fire, melts the heart, burns up the dross, and kindles pious and devout affections in the soul; in which, as in the fire on the altar, the spiritual sacrifices are offered up. They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, more than before. They were filled with the graces of the Spirit, and more than ever under his sanctifying influences; more weaned from this world, and better acquainted with the other. They were more filled with the comforts of the Spirit, rejoiced more than ever in the love of Christ and the hope of heaven: in it all their griefs and fears were swallowed up. They were filled with the gifts of the Holy Spirit they had miraculous powers for the furtherance of the gospel. They spake, not from previous though or meditation, but as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:5-13).

As we move to the closing, Pastor Balasingh gave a beautiful example of mountains, "Using wind, God is the sculpture of all the mountains. If mountains can be shaped by the blowing winds, imagine He can do to us with His Spirit." We encourage all of you to pray and ask God to be filled by His Spirit. 

We have another closing announcement, Pastor Joseph Joute will be leaving to Kerala fro his higher studies in one of the seminary for around two years. We would encourage you all to pray for his journey as well as mission assigned by Lord. 

Great sermon and everybody was involved in the powerful closing prayer. Hope you enjoyed today's service. 

God Bless!

May 11, 2014 | Sunday Service Report - Mother's day special

Welcome to "THE NATHAN REPORT"! First of all, I want to thank my friend "Neissly Tapia" for allowing me to use her photograph for today's blog. THANK YOU AND A BIG HUG TO YOU! This photo is beautiful, way too beautiful. May God bless you and your family, abundantly.

Alright, today's service is a "Mother's Day Special Service". As usual we started off with beautiful praise and worship. Below is the list of songs:

1) The Spirit of the Lord - Hosanna Music

2) Days of Elijah - Paul Wilbur

3) Revival Fire Fall - Hosanna Music

4) Pour out Your spirit - Matt Redman

5) Spirit Move - Vinesong Music

Alright, we move to the offering and announcement. Since this is a special service for mothers, today's announcement and message is conveyed by two of our church members who are mothers as well. Followings are the list of announcements:

1- We had team visit to one of the national state for 5 days trip which started from 5th - 10th of this month. As we have heard, temperature there was touching 45° Celsius. But spirit of God was moving and helped with all obstacles and it went successful. We would request prayers from all our readers.

2- Men's fellowship is on 15th of May at Hotel Avion at 6:30 AM. We encourage you to join us.

3- Women's fellowship will be held every last Saturday of every month at 4:30 PM at Hotel Avion.

4- We are seeking harvesters. Please let us know if you think this is your calling.  ("And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest." - Luke 10:2). For more information, please log on to our official Church website by clicking to the church banner on the top right of this page or by clicking here.

Today's message is given by Sister Judy. Since we are celebrating Mother's day, we had a change of plan. As you all know, we are covering "Holy Spirit & the Gifts of Holy Spirit", we will be continuing that from next Sunday onwards. Today's topic was "Mothers - Leave the legacy behind".

Sister Judy started with four important points about why mothers should leave there legacy behind. We will learn more as we move further.

1- It is a command.

2- You will be blessed.

3- You have to face the judge.

4- What can we leave as a legacy?

It is a command:

"6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. 8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates." - Deuteronomy 6:6-9

Here are means for maintaining and keeping up religion in our hearts and houses: 

1. Meditation. God's words must be laid up in our hearts, that our thoughts may be daily employed about them. 

2. The religious education of children. Often repeat these things to them. Be careful and exact in teaching thy children. Teach these truths to all who are any way under thy care. 

3. Pious discourse. Thou shalt talk of these things with due reverence and seriousness, for the benefit not only of thy children, but of thy servants, thy friends and companions. Take all occasions to discourse with those about thee, not of matters of doubtful disputation, but of the plain truths and laws of God, and the things that belong to our peace. 

4. Frequent reading of the word. God appointed them to write sentences of the law upon their walls, and in scrolls of parchment to be worn about their wrists. This seems to have been binding in the letter of it to the Jews, as it is to us in the intent of it; which is, that we should by all means make the word of God familiar to us; that we may have it ready to use upon all occasions, to restrain us from sin, and direct us in duty. We must never be ashamed to own our religion, nor to own ourselves under its check and government. Here is a caution not to forget God in a day of prosperity and plenty. When they came easily by the gift, they would be apt to grow secure, and unmindful of the Giver. Therefore be careful, when thou liest safe and soft, lest thou forget the Lord. When the world smiles, we are apt to make court to it, and expect our happiness in it, and so we forget Him who is our only portion and rest. There is need of great care and caution at such a time. Then beware; being warned of your danger, stand upon your guard. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God; neither by despairing of his power and goodness, while we keep in the way of our duty; nor by presuming upon it, when we turn aside out of that way.

You will be blessed:

1 Praise the Lord! Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who greatly delights in his commandments! 2 His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.

Footnotes:

Psalm 112:1 This psalm is an acrostic poem, each line beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet.

"His seed shall be mighty upon earth," that is to say, successive generations of God-fearing men shall be strong and influential in society, and in the latter days they shall have dominion. The true seed of the righteous are those who follow them in their virtues, even as believers are the seed of Abraham, because they imitate his faith; and these are the real heroes of their era, the truly great men among the sons of Adam; their lives are sublime, and their power upon their age is far greater than at first sight appears. If the promise must be regarded as alluding to natural seed, it must be understood as a general statement rather than a promise made to every individual, for the children of the godly are not all prosperous, nor all famous. Nevertheless, he who fears God, and leads a holy life, is, as a rule, doing the best he can for the future advancement of his house; no inheritance is equal to that of an unblemished name, no legacy can excel the benediction of a saint; and, taking matters for all in all, the children of the righteous man commence life with greater advantages than others, and are more likely to succeed in it, in the best and highest sense. "The generation of the upright shall be blessed." The race of sincere, devout, righteous men, is kept up from age to age, and ever abides under the blessing of God. Their children also are under the special care of heaven, and as a rule it shall be found that they inherit the divine blessing. Honesty and integrity are better corner-stones for an honorable house than mere cunning and avarice, or even talent and push. To fear God and to walk uprightly is a higher nobility than blood or birth can bestow.

You have to face the judge:

"16 Do you not know that you[b] are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you? 17 If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple. 18 Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise.19 For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness." - 1 Corinthians 3:16-19 

Footnotes:

1 Corinthians 3:16 The Greek for you is plural in verses 16 and 17

To have a high opinion of our own wisdom, is but to flatter ourselves; and self-flattery is the next step to self-deceit. The wisdom that wordly men esteem, is foolishness with God. How justly does he despise, and how easily can he baffle and confound it! The thoughts of the wisest men in the world, have vanity, weakness, and folly in them. All this should teach us to be humble, and make us willing to be taught of God, so as not to be led away, by pretences to human wisdom and skill, from the simple truths revealed by Christ. Mankind are very apt to oppose the design of the mercies of God. Observe the spiritual riches of a true believer; All are yours, even ministers and ordinances. Nay, the world itself is yours. Saints have as much of it as Infinite Wisdom sees fit for them, and they have it with the Divine blessing. Life is yours, that you may have a season and opportunity to prepare for the life of heaven; and death is yours, that you may go to the possession of it. It is the kind messenger to take you from sin and sorrow, and to guide you to your Father's house. Things present are yours, for your support on the road; things to come are yours, to delight you for ever at your journey's end. If we belong to Christ, and are true to him, all good belongs to us, and is sure to us. Believers are the subjects of his kingdom. He is Lord over us, we must own his dominion, and cheerfully submit to his command. God in Christ, reconciling a sinful world to himself, and pouring the riches of his grace on a reconciled world, is the sum and substance of the gospel.

What can we leave as a legacy?

"The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot." - Proverbs 10:7

The memory of the just is blessed, Men to whom he has been useful, either in temporals or spirituals, bless him, or wish all blessings to him while alive, whenever they make mention of his name; and after death they speak well of him, and pronounce him blessed; for such are had in everlasting remembrance; the memory of them is sweet and precious; their name is famous and valuable, and always spoken of with honor and commendation.

As we move further, sister Judy introduces few important characters from the word of God to encourage women to learn the ways of these legacy makers.

Mary:

Mary occupies a unique place in biblical history. She conceived Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit. Then she bore the Messiah. Among women, she is most blessed (Luke 1:42) and all who claim to be Christian acknowledge her as a chosen vessel of God. Mary knew what she will go through, yet she remained obedient to God.

Few cross references:

Luke 1:28

Luke 1:38

Luke 2:19

Deborah:

Deborah was both a prophetess and ruler of the people of ancient Israel, the only woman among the twelve judges. She held court under the Palm Tree of Deborah in the hill country of Ephraim, deciding the people's disputes. She served as a wise judge, obeying God's commands. In a time of crisis, she trusted Jehovah and took steps to defeat King Jabin, Israel's oppressor. She followed God faithfully, acting with integrity in her duties. Her boldness came from relying on God, not herself. In a male-dominated culture, Deborah did not let her power go to her head but exercised authority as God guided her. Our strength comes from the Lord, not ourself. Like Deborah, we can have victory in life's worst times if we cling tightly to God.

Few cross references:

Judges 4:9

Judges 5:31

Esther:

Queen Esther became the king of Persia's consort and thereby had the means to save her people from slaughter. The Jewish holiday of Purim, which typically falls sometime in March, tells Esther's story. We often talk about reading our bibles and praying. We talk about the importance of going to church and developing a relationship with God. Yet, talking gets us nowhere. We have to internalize our relationship with Him. God is not mentioned once in the book of Esther. Yet He is everywhere in it. We don't actually need God to be mentioned, because He is such a part of Esther and Mordecai that's it's just a given that He would work in their lives. By preparing, we are able to walk with God in the face of anything, which is what Esther did.

Hannah: 

Hannah is one of the most poignant characters in the Old Testament. Like several other women in the Bible, she was barren. People in ancient Israel believed that a large family was a blessing from God. Infertility, therefore, was a source of humiliation and shame. To make matters worse, her husband's other wife not only bore children but taunted Hannah mercilessly. Hannah was perseverant. Even though God was silent toward her request for a child for many years, she never stopped praying. She had faith that God had the power to help her. She never doubted God's abilities.

Ruth:

Ruth was poor and a foreigner, but she listened to the advice of an older, wiser woman.  In turn, Naomi was rewarded by Ruth's unfaltering loyalty. The message? Courage and ingenuity triumph over misfortune. The story of Ruth celebrates the family and the way it continues through many generations.  Ruth, a childless widow at the beginning of the story, became the great-grandmother of Israel’s great king, David.The story of Naomi's family and the way it endured is a universal theme. Even Ruth, a foreigner from the despised Moabites, could move God's plan towards fulfillment. 

As we move to the closing of message, sister Judy gave a beautiful quote, "Be consistent with rules and consequences. Let love, fear and blessings of God pour on our children and may we leave our legacy for the future generations like the women mentioned above did, so that our children can continue in the same tradition. As a mother, leave a footprint of God on your children, so they walk in HIS ways." 

We have few references:

1 Timothy 1:5"The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." 

2 Timothy 3:5 - "Having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people."

Proverbs 31:10-31 - "10 [See footnotes] A wife of noble character who can find?

    She is worth far more than rubies.

11 Her husband has full confidence in her

    and lacks nothing of value.

12 She brings him good, not harm,

    all the days of her life.

13 She selects wool and flax

    and works with eager hands.

14 She is like the merchant ships,

    bringing her food from afar.

15 She gets up while it is still night;

    she provides food for her family

    and portions for her female servants.

16 She considers a field and buys it;

    out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.

17 She sets about her work vigorously;

    her arms are strong for her tasks.

18 She sees that her trading is profitable,

    and her lamp does not go out at night.

19 In her hand she holds the distaff

    and grasps the spindle with her fingers.

20 She opens her arms to the poor

    and extends her hands to the needy.

21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;

    for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

22 She makes coverings for her bed;

    she is clothed in fine linen and purple.

23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,

    where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.

24 She makes linen garments and sells them,

    and supplies the merchants with sashes.

25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;

    she can laugh at the days to come.

26 She speaks with wisdom,

    and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

27 She watches over the affairs of her household

    and does not eat the bread of idleness.

28 Her children arise and call her blessed;

    her husband also, and he praises her:

29 “Many women do noble things,

    but you surpass them all.”

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;

    but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

31 Honor her for all that her hands have done,

    and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

Footnotes:

Proverbs 31:10 Verses 10-31 are an acrostic poem, the verses of which begin with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet.

We closed the message with a prayer and as pastor takes over, he starts with a short story by Erma Bombeck, When God Created Mothers

When the Good Lord was creating mothers, He was into His sixth day of "overtime" when the angel appeared and said. "You're doing a lot of fiddling around on this one." 

And God said, "Have you read the specs on this order?" She has to be completely washable, but not plastic. Have 180 moveable parts...all replaceable. Run on black coffee and leftovers. Have a lap that disappears when she stands up. A kiss that can cure anything from a broken leg to a disappointed love affair. And six pairs of hands." 

The angel shook her head slowly and said. "Six pairs of hands.... no way." 

It's not the hands that are causing me problems," God remarked, "it's the three pairs of eyes that mothers have to have." 

That's on the standard model?" asked the angel. God nodded. 

One pair that sees through closed doors when she asks, 'What are you kids doing in there?' when she already knows. Another here in the back of her head that sees what she shouldn't but what she has to know, and of course the ones here in front that can look at a child when he goofs up and say. 'I understand and I love you' without so much as uttering a word." 

God," said the angel touching his sleeve gently, "Get some rest tomorrow...." 

I can't," said God, "I'm so close to creating something so close to myself. Already I have one who heals herself when she is sick...can feed a family of six on one pound of hamburger...and can get a nine year old to stand under a shower." 

The angel circled the model of a mother very slowly. "It's too soft," she sighed. 

But tough!" said God excitedly. "You can imagine what this mother can do or endure." 

Can it think?" 

Not only can it think, but it can reason and compromise," said the Creator. 

Finally, the angel bent over and ran her finger across the cheek. 

There's a leak," she pronounced. "I told You that You were trying to put too much into this model." 

It's not a leak," said the Lord, "It's a tear." 

What's it for?" 

It's for joy, sadness, disappointment, pain, loneliness, and pride." 

You are a genius, " said the angel. 

Somberly, God said, "I didn't put it there.” 

As we move to the closing, all mothers were requested to come forward. There was special prayer for all of them and gifts for each of them. Since I am not a mother, I personally will never be able to know, what was it, I'll ask my mother. 

We have another announcement, one of our worship leaders is getting married. Please remember Clement Vincent in your prayers as he enters a new life with his wife. 

Also, we have a short testimony by sister Mary Gomez from Varanasi. She told how she was moved by the work of God. Her ministry was able to start 103 churches, which is phenomenal. Please continue praying for her ministry. 

We have a closing prayer followed by a meet and greet session. Someone started background music, here is the one:

We  hope you enjoyed today's service. How was yours? Please comment.

God bless!