First Church of the Nazarene
Come & See - week 5
💔 Have you ever felt unseen? Misunderstood? Rejected? Jesus knows that pain. He lived it. He was a stranger in His own land. He was mocked, abandoned, and betrayed. He was acquainted with grief. And yet—through His suffering, He became our greatest hope. As we journey toward the cross this Lent, join us for “Jesus the Stranger”—a fresh lens on Christ’s humanity, His rejection, and His holy love that heals. 📖 “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief…” – Isaiah 53:3 Come and see Jesus—our Savior, our healer, our hope.
Locations & Times
First Church of the Nazarene, Gallipolis
1110 1st Ave, Gallipolis, OH 45631, USA
Sunday 10:30 AM
Connection Card
I'm New / Looking for More Information You might be wondering, what's it really like at First Church? Simply stated, we're all about Jesus and what He has done in our life. You won't experience shame, guilt, or condemnation. We don't care how you dress or what candidate you voted for in the last election. Our church is made up of imperfect people with every kind of story imaginable. Do you want to know the best part? No matter what you've been through or what questions you might have about God and faith, our church is a place where you'll find the love, grace, and forgiveness Jesus gives to everyone. If you're new to First Church or seeking more information about an event, small group, or ministry, follow the link to fill out a short form and we'll reach out to you this week. NOTE: We value your privacy and would never spam you.
https://tinyurl.com/3hzybjzfGiving to First Church has never been easier
We thank you for being part of First Church of the Nazarene. Your gift makes ministry possible through our congregation. Our aim as a church is currently to give away no less than 15% of our income to others, to save 5% of our income preparing for the future, and living from 80% of our income to provide local ministry. Join us as we work together for future ministry through First Church of the Nazarene to Gallipolis, surrounding areas that include in Ohio and West Virginia, and throughout the world.
https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/6717651
Banquet for the Canceled (Matthew 22:1-9)
Talk It Over questions for personal reflection, family or small group.
1.What’s the most memorable invitation you’ve ever received — and what made it meaningful? Can you recall a time when you felt excluded or rejected? How did it impact you?
2.In your own words, how would you explain the difference between “religion” and “relationship with Jesus”?
3.Read Matthew 22:1–14. What stands out to you in Jesus’ parable about the banquet? How do you interpret the king’s reaction to those who rejected the invitation and those who were invited in their place?
4.Read Acts 8:26–40. What barriers might have kept the Ethiopian eunuch from experiencing belonging? What do you learn from Philip’s obedience and openness? Read 1 John 4:7–21. What does John say about love, fear, and knowing God? How does this relate to Jesus’ invitation to those who feel “canceled”?
5.Read John 15:1–8. What does it mean to “abide” in Christ? How might this differ from “trying harder” to be a better Christian?
6.Jesus tells Nicodemus (John 3:1–7) that he must be “born again.” What assumptions or traditions might Nicodemus have had to let go of to receive this truth?
7.Is there a part of your life or story that makes you feel disqualified from God’s invitation? What do Jesus’ words and actions say to that? What does it mean for you, personally, to “say yes” to the invitation of Jesus? Is there a next step of faith, obedience, or trust He is calling you to take?
8. Are there people in your life who have felt “canceled,” excluded, or unwelcome? What would it look like for you to be like Philip and invite them closer?
9.How might you live differently this week if you really believed, “Your seat is waiting”? What “wedding clothes” (acts of holiness and humility) are you being called to put on as a response to grace?
2.In your own words, how would you explain the difference between “religion” and “relationship with Jesus”?
3.Read Matthew 22:1–14. What stands out to you in Jesus’ parable about the banquet? How do you interpret the king’s reaction to those who rejected the invitation and those who were invited in their place?
4.Read Acts 8:26–40. What barriers might have kept the Ethiopian eunuch from experiencing belonging? What do you learn from Philip’s obedience and openness? Read 1 John 4:7–21. What does John say about love, fear, and knowing God? How does this relate to Jesus’ invitation to those who feel “canceled”?
5.Read John 15:1–8. What does it mean to “abide” in Christ? How might this differ from “trying harder” to be a better Christian?
6.Jesus tells Nicodemus (John 3:1–7) that he must be “born again.” What assumptions or traditions might Nicodemus have had to let go of to receive this truth?
7.Is there a part of your life or story that makes you feel disqualified from God’s invitation? What do Jesus’ words and actions say to that? What does it mean for you, personally, to “say yes” to the invitation of Jesus? Is there a next step of faith, obedience, or trust He is calling you to take?
8. Are there people in your life who have felt “canceled,” excluded, or unwelcome? What would it look like for you to be like Philip and invite them closer?
9.How might you live differently this week if you really believed, “Your seat is waiting”? What “wedding clothes” (acts of holiness and humility) are you being called to put on as a response to grace?
Daily Reading Guide & Reflections
1) Be still for a minute in God’s presence.
2) Record what God draws to your attention.
3) Each day, write your reflection in a journal: What is God drawing your attention to in the readings? Write down a word or phrase that stands out.
4) On Saturday, how have you seen God at work over this week? Write down your reflections in a journal.
5/11 READ Day 22 – John 1:38-41
5/12 READ Day 23 – 1 Corinthians 9:16
5/13 READ Day 24 – John 16:33
5/14 READ Day 25 – Romans 10:17
5/15 READ Day 26 – Luke 2:10-11
5/16 READ Day 27 – Acts 8:12
5/17 READ Day 28 – Isaiah 61:1
5/18 READ Day 29 – Mathew 22:11-14
1) Be still for a minute in God’s presence.
2) Record what God draws to your attention.
3) Each day, write your reflection in a journal: What is God drawing your attention to in the readings? Write down a word or phrase that stands out.
4) On Saturday, how have you seen God at work over this week? Write down your reflections in a journal.
5/11 READ Day 22 – John 1:38-41
5/12 READ Day 23 – 1 Corinthians 9:16
5/13 READ Day 24 – John 16:33
5/14 READ Day 25 – Romans 10:17
5/15 READ Day 26 – Luke 2:10-11
5/16 READ Day 27 – Acts 8:12
5/17 READ Day 28 – Isaiah 61:1
5/18 READ Day 29 – Mathew 22:11-14
Pick up your copy and join us daily between now and June 13, 2025
This Week's Info
We Welcome You to Our Worship Service Today!
Out of all the places you could choose to worship, we are honored that you chose to worship with us. Please fill out a guest card so we can follow up to thank you for your visit.
Children are part of our regular morning worship service, and no nursery staff are scheduled. Please pick up a children/youth worship bulletin in the lobby and return crayons or colored pencils following the worship service.
This Week May 18 - 24
Sun. 9:30 AM Small Groups
- Infants (Nursery)
- Ages 4 – 3rd Grade (Nursery)
- Adults: Heavenbound (FLC)
- Adults: Faithful Followers (Chapel)
10:15 AM Prayer around the Altar
10:30 AM Worship
6:00 – 7:30 PM Open Gym (Youth grd. 6-12)
Wed. 6:30 PM Choir Practice
6:30 PM Prayer & Praise (FLC)
Thurs. No Food Pantry this week
Coming Up
June 4-7 Regional BLAST for Youth
June 15 Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast
June 23-26 Teen Camp
July 6-13 SCO Camp Meeting at Hocking Hills
Announcements: Please submit all information for Sunday’s bulletin to the church office at gallipolisfirstnaz@gmail.com by 5 PM each Tuesday.
Prayer Requests: Prayer Requests can be texted to 844-394-3538. Please understand that someone is not immediately available to respond to or forward prayer requests. They will be sent out as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Teacher Appreciation: Would you help us bless the teachers at Addaville Elementary School by writing a thank you card? Cards are located on the Welcome Center desk and can be dropped in the basket by the school's sign today. Barb Neal will be delivering them to the teachers later this week.
Belize Baby Blessing Bags: We’re excited to partner with Nate & Somer Sherren and Just 1 Global to support new mothers and their babies in San Antonio, Cayo, Belize through Baby Blessing Bags—backpacks filled with essential newborn items delivered by the Sherrens and local church members as part of their summer mission trip. You can help by purchasing items from our Walmart registry or by sponsoring a backpack with a $30 donation to cover travel and import costs. Each complete bag costs under $100, with individual items ranging from $2–$8. Join us through next Sunday, May 25 to bless as many families as possible with love, dignity, and the hope of Christ. https://glnk.app/go/D0Q0YdAemTL6
Overnight Youth Chaperones Needed: In June, our teens will travel to Mount Vernon, OH for the regional BLAST competition, followed by summer camp in Indiana. To ensure the safety of our youth and volunteers, we need additional chaperones. If you’re available to help from June 5-6 or June 23–26, please contact Sandi Plantz as soon as possible. This will help us finalize plans and determine how many students can attend. Thank you for supporting our youth!
Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast: Join us for a special Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast and Worship Service at 9:30 AM on Sunday, June 15 in the Family Life Center. Small groups will not meet separately, and the worship service will take place in the FLC instead of the sanctuary. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors to be part of this meaningful morning!
Teen Summer Camp: Students who have just completed grades 6–12 are invited to Summer Camp at Higher Ground Retreat Center in West Harrison, IN, from Monday, June 23 to Thursday, June 26. This year’s theme, Echoes of Eden, invites students to rediscover the joy, purpose, and connection we were created for. Camp includes worship, engaging messages, swimming, Gaga Ball, messy games, breakout sessions, rec stations, and more—all focused on pointing students to Jesus and building lasting friendships. The cost is $225, with scholarships available based on need and student involvement. Register by Sunday, June 8 at sconaz.org/teen-camp.
Out of all the places you could choose to worship, we are honored that you chose to worship with us. Please fill out a guest card so we can follow up to thank you for your visit.
Children are part of our regular morning worship service, and no nursery staff are scheduled. Please pick up a children/youth worship bulletin in the lobby and return crayons or colored pencils following the worship service.
This Week May 18 - 24
Sun. 9:30 AM Small Groups
- Infants (Nursery)
- Ages 4 – 3rd Grade (Nursery)
- Adults: Heavenbound (FLC)
- Adults: Faithful Followers (Chapel)
10:15 AM Prayer around the Altar
10:30 AM Worship
6:00 – 7:30 PM Open Gym (Youth grd. 6-12)
Wed. 6:30 PM Choir Practice
6:30 PM Prayer & Praise (FLC)
Thurs. No Food Pantry this week
Coming Up
June 4-7 Regional BLAST for Youth
June 15 Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast
June 23-26 Teen Camp
July 6-13 SCO Camp Meeting at Hocking Hills
Announcements: Please submit all information for Sunday’s bulletin to the church office at gallipolisfirstnaz@gmail.com by 5 PM each Tuesday.
Prayer Requests: Prayer Requests can be texted to 844-394-3538. Please understand that someone is not immediately available to respond to or forward prayer requests. They will be sent out as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Teacher Appreciation: Would you help us bless the teachers at Addaville Elementary School by writing a thank you card? Cards are located on the Welcome Center desk and can be dropped in the basket by the school's sign today. Barb Neal will be delivering them to the teachers later this week.
Belize Baby Blessing Bags: We’re excited to partner with Nate & Somer Sherren and Just 1 Global to support new mothers and their babies in San Antonio, Cayo, Belize through Baby Blessing Bags—backpacks filled with essential newborn items delivered by the Sherrens and local church members as part of their summer mission trip. You can help by purchasing items from our Walmart registry or by sponsoring a backpack with a $30 donation to cover travel and import costs. Each complete bag costs under $100, with individual items ranging from $2–$8. Join us through next Sunday, May 25 to bless as many families as possible with love, dignity, and the hope of Christ. https://glnk.app/go/D0Q0YdAemTL6
Overnight Youth Chaperones Needed: In June, our teens will travel to Mount Vernon, OH for the regional BLAST competition, followed by summer camp in Indiana. To ensure the safety of our youth and volunteers, we need additional chaperones. If you’re available to help from June 5-6 or June 23–26, please contact Sandi Plantz as soon as possible. This will help us finalize plans and determine how many students can attend. Thank you for supporting our youth!
Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast: Join us for a special Father’s Day Pancake Breakfast and Worship Service at 9:30 AM on Sunday, June 15 in the Family Life Center. Small groups will not meet separately, and the worship service will take place in the FLC instead of the sanctuary. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors to be part of this meaningful morning!
Teen Summer Camp: Students who have just completed grades 6–12 are invited to Summer Camp at Higher Ground Retreat Center in West Harrison, IN, from Monday, June 23 to Thursday, June 26. This year’s theme, Echoes of Eden, invites students to rediscover the joy, purpose, and connection we were created for. Camp includes worship, engaging messages, swimming, Gaga Ball, messy games, breakout sessions, rec stations, and more—all focused on pointing students to Jesus and building lasting friendships. The cost is $225, with scholarships available based on need and student involvement. Register by Sunday, June 8 at sconaz.org/teen-camp.
The Discipleship Place
The Discipleship Place includes the website, courses, and interactive version of the How to Study the Bible course provided by the Church of the Nazarene Discipleship International. Interactive Course: How to Study the Bible. People will find this new format engaging, fun, and interactive, redesigned with game elements and a visually appealing look. Get started now by clicking here. Discipleship and Mental Disorders. Key questions about mental disorders and the church community will be addressed, along with several “skills videos” to help those who may struggle with a mental disorder. Small Group Discipleship. These teaching videos feature Rev. Michael Downs providing a video series where key discipleship principles are discussed, followed by a demonstration of how these principles can be practiced in a small group setting.
https://discipleshipplace.org/I'm Passionate About Evangelism
Our Purpose: Our prayer is that every Nazarene would lead one person to faith every year. Jesus commissioned us to “go and make disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:18-20) Jesus offers to give each of us the opportunity to join Him in the amazing journey of disciple making! And He gave an incredible promise to those who are willing to go! He said, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” We do not go alone. The One who has all authority in heaven and on earth promised to go with us wherever we go! Join us on the greatest adventure of a lifetime: the journey of disciple-making! Helpful definitions:Evangelism - Engaging in the lives of pre-Christians with the purpose, goal, and intent of leading them to faith in Christ as the first step in their journey of following Christ. Disciple – Christ follower Disciple-Making - The process of leading pre-Christians to faith, Christlikeness, and multiplying disciple-makers. Prevenient Grace - The grace that goes beforehand preparing the way for disciple makers to engage pre-Christians in evangelistic outreach and conversations. Micro-mission - My personal mission and goals to lead pre-Christians to make the decision to become a disciple of Jesus. Macro-mission - My personal mission and goals for involvement in church planting.
https://usacanadaregion.org/evangelism-revivalismHow to Be a Disciplemaker
Do you want help in making disciples of Jesus? Jesus’ intends that all His followers be discipled by His Word, Spirit, and Body. The following dialogue between Hal and Debbi Perkins is intended to guide you in the “what” of making disciples using the Discipled by Jesus (DBJ) model. But there is more. The videos listed below seek to clearly identify the “why” – not merely the what – behind each component of the DBJ model for making disciples of Jesus. Please note that the disciplemaker who only knows and does the “what” without comprehending the “why” will normally miss the key essentials of Jesus’ discipling us using the Discipled by Jesus process. We pray you will be helped to be a far more effective disciplemaker through the series of dialogues between Hal and Debbi below.
https://discipledbyjesus.org/how-to-be-a-disciplemaker/RightNow Media
We believe the mission of the church matters. And we’ve seen how God can change lives through video resources. That’s why we developed RightNow Media. Now, every person in your church can access over 25,000 biblically-based videos for small groups, families, students, leadership development, and much more. We hope to help you equip and disciple the people of your church.
Every person in your church can access biblically-based videos on topics like marriage, parenting, youth, recovery, leadership, finances and much more. Follow the link to begin digging deeper to develop Christlikeness using the Rightnow Media resources.
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/join/gallipolisnaz