Weekly Contact 6 July 2009

I want to begin by thanking everyone who is involved in New Life at whatever level. I believe this past week has shown that we not only have a solid base, but we also have a sound structure of teams that are truly beginning to work together. It seems like we are just about ready to move to the next level that we've talked about for some time now. The next few months are going to be very significant for the church.

 

Sunday Morning: I spoke on the one subject I have never been comfortable with: I spoke on "Finances", but the strange thing is I felt comfortable doing so! Is that crazy or what? Having done so I received so many positive responses after the service in the morning and then again on Sunday night.

 

I think writing a few sermon notes here would not do the message justice, so I am going to recommend you buy the CD. In the message you will get an update on our financial situation up to the date of recording besides teaching on what "The Bible" says about tithing. Several commented that they had never heard it presented like this before and deeply appreciated the content and the manner in which it was presented. Some took it to the next level and responded in a very practical way afterwards. So I recommend you get the CD. Email me and let me know if you want to order a copy for £3.00.

 

Sunday Night: I spoke on "Following Christ with Strength". Based on 2 Tim. 2:1-7.

 

Paul told Timothy to:

 

        1. Be Strong; 2. Be Reliable; 3. Endure Hardship.

 

He then went on to use three different careers to describe a Christian:

 

        1. A Soldier; 2. An Athlete; 3. A Hardworking Farmer.

 

I finished by making the point that when you choose to follow Christ: you need to be strong; be reliable; endure hardship; be as focused as a soldier; be as committed as an athlete, and as hardworking as a farmer. We prayed for several people at the end of the service, besides praying for those who were not there who are experiencing difficulties individually and within families.

 

Next Sunday: Don't forget, because Sunday is the 12 July, there is only one service at 11 am. We are hoping to have an outreach on Saturday or Sunday night in the Lower Shankill and will let you know as soon as the details are sorted. Please support this.

 

Holidays: Please continue to support the church over the holidays, and if you are heading away somewhere, don't forget to take your Bible with you (and your wife if your married)!

 

Stay focused; stay strong; and keep being a God-influence.

 

Pastor Jack