First Baptist Church, South Haven
Worship Gathering: 4/19/20
Thank you for joining us for worship this morning! While our place of worship has changed from the usual place and time, we are grateful to know that the Body of Christ can worship anytime, anywhere. As a reminder If you have a need for assistance during this time (grocery delivery, meals, etc.), please do not hesitate to call/text Kim Collins on her cell phone. We have church members ready and willing to help. We can get through this together. Our God is able.
Locations & Times
First Baptist Church
10781 76th St, South Haven, MI 49090, USA
Sunday 6:00 AM
Worship Video 4/19/2020
You can view the sermon video that correlates with today's notes on our YouTube page by clicking here.
https://youtu.be/-cL1VNLggzQWeekly Bulletin: 4/19/2020
View this week's bulletin including general announcements and weekly prayer requests by clicking here.
https://www.southhavenfbc.com/weekly-bulletins
Are We There Yet?
Heb. 10:23-25
Pastor Jerry Koller
Heb. 10:23-25
Pastor Jerry Koller
I would like to share with you some suggestions and perspectives to help you persevere in this challenging time until this challenge passes and things return to normal.
· Draw Near to God
· Hold on to Hope
· Encourage One Another
· Draw Near to God
· Hold on to Hope
· Encourage One Another
“Let” is a word that means to allow or permit.
· From a negative or opposite perspective, it means to not prevent or forbid.
· From a negative or opposite perspective, it means to not prevent or forbid.
“Us” is a plural personal pronoun.
· Because the book of Hebrews is addressing the church at large rather than the church at a specific location, “us” covers a broad range of people.
· Because the book of Hebrews is addressing the church at large rather than the church at a specific location, “us” covers a broad range of people.
· We draw near God in sincerity, in faith, and in holiness.
· Sincerity means we draw near with our very being.
· Sincerity means we draw near with our very being.
Trying times are always opportunities for a person to draw nearer to God.
· On the other hand, trying times are also opportunities for us to drift away from God.
· On the other hand, trying times are also opportunities for us to drift away from God.
Ways to draw near to God:
· Pray.
· Give thanks.
· Worship
· Live for the glory of God.
· Pray.
· Give thanks.
· Worship
· Live for the glory of God.
Unswervingly means in a constant and steadfast, dependable, and loyal manner.
We are to keep doing our best to hold unswervingly to the hope we possess. What is this hope?
· The first perspective has to do with the forgiveness of sin and life everlasting with Jesus Christ.
· The first perspective has to do with the forgiveness of sin and life everlasting with Jesus Christ.
...a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, (Titus 1:2)
We also hold on unswervingly to the One to whom the Gospel points to: Jesus.
In Jesus we have a new life, a new birth, a living hope.
God will bring it about for He is not only capable, He is faithful.
To spur on means to stimulate; to excite; to incite.
You could look at verses 24-25 as a spiritual stimulus package. This package is designed to encourage one another.
There are three parts to this stimulus package. We are to:
· Stimulate one another to love.
· Stimulate one another to do good deeds.
· Stimulate one another to assemble together.
· Stimulate one another to love.
· Stimulate one another to do good deeds.
· Stimulate one another to assemble together.
The term “good deeds” in verse 24, is a reference to what we do as a result of being in Christ.
· Another term for good deeds is works or good works.
· These are the fruits of being in Christ.
· They are always directed to others.
· Another term for good deeds is works or good works.
· These are the fruits of being in Christ.
· They are always directed to others.
Good works has a two-pronged effect. It affects the ones who are on the receiving end. It also affects the ones doing the good deeds.
· Love feeds deeds.
· Deeds produce love.
The environment for this to take place is expressed in the phrase: “our own assembling together” (Hebrews 10:25).
· Deeds produce love.
The environment for this to take place is expressed in the phrase: “our own assembling together” (Hebrews 10:25).
The idea of assembling together certainly includes engaging in corporate worship.
· the root of this word also includes the idea of coming together side-by-side; coming together to stand against something or someone.
· We can still assemble together (although not physically) to stand side-by-side so that we can stimulate one another to love and good deeds.
· We can assemble together in other ways to stand against discouragement.
· the root of this word also includes the idea of coming together side-by-side; coming together to stand against something or someone.
· We can still assemble together (although not physically) to stand side-by-side so that we can stimulate one another to love and good deeds.
· We can assemble together in other ways to stand against discouragement.
Our circumstances have changed but that doesn’t mean we give up on stimulating one another to love and good deeds—although Hebrews 10:25 clearly indicates some will give up. For some, it has become a habit. Don’t let it happen to you. Don’t give up.
Suggestions for Assembling:
· Give an hour to an hour-and-a-half
· Text someone
· Message someone
· Call someone
· Pray for needs
· If possible, meet those needs within the restriction guidelines.
· Give an hour to an hour-and-a-half
· Text someone
· Message someone
· Call someone
· Pray for needs
· If possible, meet those needs within the restriction guidelines.
APPLICATION
· Let us not give up.
· Let us keep living out our faith together for the glory of God.
· Let us keep living out our faith together for the glory of God.
We are here for you!
We realize that this can be a difficult and stressful time for many of our church members. As this stay-at-home order continues to be in effect and many of you are unable to work, financial hardships can be an issue. Concerns and worry about the virus, financial issues, being stuck at home, etc. can be creating emotional and psychological stress. Your spiritual wellness many be struggling as we are unable to worship together and connect with church family on a regular basis.
We are here for you!! If you need assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Let us know how we can pray for you! You can submit a confidential request through our website (southhavenfbc.com) or by emailing either Pastor Jerry or Kim directly. In addition, we have persons willing to shop for those who cannot go to the store themselves or help in other ways too.
While we do not have unlimited financial resources, we do have some funds available. If you are in a good spot and willing/able to help others in need, perhaps you would consider a donation to our Benevolent Fund to help those who are struggling during this time.
We are all in this together! If you have suggestions or ideas about how we can support one another, please let us know.
We are here for you!! If you need assistance in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Let us know how we can pray for you! You can submit a confidential request through our website (southhavenfbc.com) or by emailing either Pastor Jerry or Kim directly. In addition, we have persons willing to shop for those who cannot go to the store themselves or help in other ways too.
While we do not have unlimited financial resources, we do have some funds available. If you are in a good spot and willing/able to help others in need, perhaps you would consider a donation to our Benevolent Fund to help those who are struggling during this time.
We are all in this together! If you have suggestions or ideas about how we can support one another, please let us know.
COVID-19/ Coronavirus Status
· Current Status: In addition to all FBC activities being cancelled until further notice, we are prohibiting access to the building to everyone unless specific permission has been granted by Pastor Jerry. If you need to come to the church, please contact Pastor Jerry in advance.
· Communication is Important! The key to getting through this is to communicate and continue to support each other however we can. Kim Collins will be working from home as much as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact her via church email, or by calling/texting her cell at 269-767-2226 if you have any questions or need assistance (grocery delivery, meals, etc.)during this time. We have church members ready and willing to help.
· Be Safe: Please be smart in safeguarding yourselves—not only for your sake, but for the sake of others. If you are sick, stay home.
· Be Faithful: Please be financially faithful. Even if you cannot gather with us, please remember that we still have expenses that need to be met.
· Be Prayerful: Please be in prayer for one another and for our nation at large.
· Communication is Important! The key to getting through this is to communicate and continue to support each other however we can. Kim Collins will be working from home as much as possible. Please do not hesitate to contact her via church email, or by calling/texting her cell at 269-767-2226 if you have any questions or need assistance (grocery delivery, meals, etc.)during this time. We have church members ready and willing to help.
· Be Safe: Please be smart in safeguarding yourselves—not only for your sake, but for the sake of others. If you are sick, stay home.
· Be Faithful: Please be financially faithful. Even if you cannot gather with us, please remember that we still have expenses that need to be met.
· Be Prayerful: Please be in prayer for one another and for our nation at large.
Happy Birthday!
· Janette Hendrix (4/19)
· Taylor Zantello (4/20)
· Linda Newell (4/24)
· Taylor Zantello (4/20)
· Linda Newell (4/24)
Happy Anniversary!
· Dave & Connie Hollis (4/20, 35 years)
· Pastor Jerry & Annette Koller (4/25, 39 years)
· Pastor Jerry & Annette Koller (4/25, 39 years)
We Care Food Pantry Collection
We will continue our Food Pantry collection for We Care which is needed now more than ever! Please bring your non-perishable items directly to the First Congregational Church on Phoenix Street. We suggest calling ahead (637-3804) to make sure someone is there to receive your items. Suggested items are:
· Cereal
· Dry Pasta
· Canned Vegetables
· Canned Fruit
· Tuna
· Spaghetti Sauce
· Crackers
· Rice-A-Roni
· Pork & Beans
· Canned Soup
· Peanut Butter
· Oatmeal
For questions, contact the church office. Thank you for helping those in our community who are in need.
· Cereal
· Dry Pasta
· Canned Vegetables
· Canned Fruit
· Tuna
· Spaghetti Sauce
· Crackers
· Rice-A-Roni
· Pork & Beans
· Canned Soup
· Peanut Butter
· Oatmeal
For questions, contact the church office. Thank you for helping those in our community who are in need.
New Theology Class: Are You Interested?
The Theology 1 course is being offered via Zoom video conference starting April 19. If you’re interested contact the church office or Rob Zantello.
Midweek Opportunities Via Zoom Video Conferences
· Children's Sunday School...Janette Hendrix is leading this class for children ages 5 years through 5th grade via Zoom on Sunday mornings from 9:30-10:15 AM. If you'd like your child to be included, please contact Janette.
· Youth Group...Allie Wilson is working on getting this group together via Zoom. If your middle or high school teen is interested in participating, please contact Allie.
· Women's Bible Study...Brandy Zantello is leading this group via Zoom on Tuesday evenings beginning at 6:40 PM. They are currently studying "The Armor of God" by Priscilla Shirer. If you're interested in joining, please contact Brandy.
· Bible Study...Vasha Ferguson is leading this group via Zoom on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:30 AM. They are currently studying the book of James. If you're interested in joining, please contact Vasha.
· Youth Group...Allie Wilson is working on getting this group together via Zoom. If your middle or high school teen is interested in participating, please contact Allie.
· Women's Bible Study...Brandy Zantello is leading this group via Zoom on Tuesday evenings beginning at 6:40 PM. They are currently studying "The Armor of God" by Priscilla Shirer. If you're interested in joining, please contact Brandy.
· Bible Study...Vasha Ferguson is leading this group via Zoom on Wednesday mornings beginning at 9:30 AM. They are currently studying the book of James. If you're interested in joining, please contact Vasha.
Weekly Prayer List
· Jason Wilburn (son of Bill & Tina Wilburn) has returned home from the hospital. He received biopsy results, and praise God that he does not have cancer. Doctors believe he has a bacterial or fungal infection in his lungs, along with possibly an underlying asthma issue. They are trying to pinpoint the exact kind of infection so they can treat accordingly. .
· Janie Kempski and her family upon the unexpected death of Janie's husband, Mike, who passed away in his sleep on 4/6 . Janie is a former FBC member and an in-law to Curt & Patty Bales.
· Elijah Truer (nephew of Doug & Julie Zantello) continues to recover from surgery requiring 14 pins and 2 plates for a broken leg following a skateboarding accident.
· Alyssa Zantello (niece of Doug & Julie Zantello) who is a physician's assistant and has traveled to New York City to help with the corona virus outbreak there. Pray for safety and protection as well as energy and stamina as she serves in this way.
· Crystal Jennings (sister of Tracy Marshall’s brother-in-law, Louie) is diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. She has begun chemo. Pray for treatments to be successful. Also pray that Louie isn’t a genetic carrier of the breast cancer gene and that it hasn’t passed to his daughters (Tracy’s nieces).
· Dave & Linda Ferrell and their family upon the death of Dave's brother, Don Ferrell, who passed away on 3/29.
· Nancy Crowner (friend of Jean Robinson) is recovering from breast cancer surgery.
· The Family of Lois Jury (sister-in-law of Steve Follman) who passed away on 4/1.
· Mike Underwood (Rocky & Sandi Starland’s son-in-law’s father) continues to have heart issues following surgery.
· Allen Quinn (34 year-old nephew of Jim & Marialice Quinn) is recovering from a massive brain stem stroke. He continues therapy in Chicago and is slowly improving.
· Lynn Rarick continues to heal from spinal surgery.
· Anna, Gabe, Samantha and Caroline Bocock have all been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
· Edna Frugé is staying with her daughter in Ohio. Her health has improved and she is currently stable. Cards can be sent to Edna Frugé, c/o Monica Holland, 5493 Bermuda Bay Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235.
· Check out our monthly prayer list on-line at southhavenfbc.com under “Weekly Bulletins” for a list of those with on-going needs or click this link https://www.southhavenfbc.com/weekly-bulletins
· Janie Kempski and her family upon the unexpected death of Janie's husband, Mike, who passed away in his sleep on 4/6 . Janie is a former FBC member and an in-law to Curt & Patty Bales.
· Elijah Truer (nephew of Doug & Julie Zantello) continues to recover from surgery requiring 14 pins and 2 plates for a broken leg following a skateboarding accident.
· Alyssa Zantello (niece of Doug & Julie Zantello) who is a physician's assistant and has traveled to New York City to help with the corona virus outbreak there. Pray for safety and protection as well as energy and stamina as she serves in this way.
· Crystal Jennings (sister of Tracy Marshall’s brother-in-law, Louie) is diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. She has begun chemo. Pray for treatments to be successful. Also pray that Louie isn’t a genetic carrier of the breast cancer gene and that it hasn’t passed to his daughters (Tracy’s nieces).
· Dave & Linda Ferrell and their family upon the death of Dave's brother, Don Ferrell, who passed away on 3/29.
· Nancy Crowner (friend of Jean Robinson) is recovering from breast cancer surgery.
· The Family of Lois Jury (sister-in-law of Steve Follman) who passed away on 4/1.
· Mike Underwood (Rocky & Sandi Starland’s son-in-law’s father) continues to have heart issues following surgery.
· Allen Quinn (34 year-old nephew of Jim & Marialice Quinn) is recovering from a massive brain stem stroke. He continues therapy in Chicago and is slowly improving.
· Lynn Rarick continues to heal from spinal surgery.
· Anna, Gabe, Samantha and Caroline Bocock have all been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
· Edna Frugé is staying with her daughter in Ohio. Her health has improved and she is currently stable. Cards can be sent to Edna Frugé, c/o Monica Holland, 5493 Bermuda Bay Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43235.
· Check out our monthly prayer list on-line at southhavenfbc.com under “Weekly Bulletins” for a list of those with on-going needs or click this link https://www.southhavenfbc.com/weekly-bulletins
First Baptist Church
1635 76th Street
South Haven, MI 49090
269-637-1291
southhavenfbc@gmail.com
1635 76th Street
South Haven, MI 49090
269-637-1291
southhavenfbc@gmail.com