MESSAGE. John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Jesus, praying to the Father, gives a clear and straightforward definition of truth: God’s Word. The Holy Bible (Scripture—the word of truth) was given by the inspiration of God (2 Timothy 3:16). The Greek expression translated “inspiration of God” literally means “God-breathed!” He actively and fully inspired the Bible to reveal His truth to us.
His promises, His commands, His word—they are all truth, plain and simple. After all, “The LORD of hosts has purposed, and who will annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back?” (Isaiah 14:27). If God says something, there is no force that can stop Him from doing it—we can rest assured that it will be done.
1 Thessalonians 5:21 “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” As Christians, we are to test all things and then hold on only to that which is good—the truth—discarding all else. Tomorrow morning I invite you to study with me the crucial importance of the belt of truth in our spiritual battle with the enemy of God.
MINISTRY. The first Sabbath of the year reminded us that it is still winter in spite of 65F today. At eight in the morning our church parking lot was covered with snow and ice. Honestly, I was concerned about our church members’ safety and was planning on preaching to myself. To my amazement we had a great group of brave members who dared to drive to first service. Not only did we have a sermon, but also a song service, and even a children’s story (Thank you, John Sabo!). The GCA choir could not make it to the second service, but they will definitely come sometime in the near future. Understandingly, we were low on our weekly church budget giving, but I pray that tomorrow morning we’ll double our weekly goal.
Your Josiah’s Restoration donations have already made a huge difference in the Music room of our school. When you get a chance please, ask the OAKS staff to give you a tour. What a blessing it is to see how our church cares and supports our school!
Do you want to hear more about our church’s ministry in 2016? Then come to the annual church business meeting tomorrow night, January 14, at 6 pm. However, there are several other things taking place in the afternoon. Singspiration at 4:30 pm and a Prayer Meeting from 5:30 to 6:00 pm. Wow, big day, right?
Prayer Warriors’ lunch at the Chilson’s house has been postponed due to Sondra’s illness.
Thunder in the Holy Land study group is moving back to the Samaritan Center effective tonight. The meetings are being held every Friday at 6:30 pm. Mark Philips is leading the study tonight.
Please, mark your calendar for the War Room film showing at our church on January 28 at 6 pm.
Did you remember to register for “A Fresh Start” program? If not, please contact Sylvia asap either by phone or email: 423-531-6181, ooltewahhealthministries@gmail.com More info here .
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Light of Hope. We are practically four weeks away from the opening night of the Light of Hope meetings in Moscow and after that in Mariupol, Eastern Ukraine. Lots or prayers are needed. I have no doubts that God’s Word will touch many hearts not only in the church building in Moscow, but also of those who will be watching via TBN-RUSSIA. What an incredible historic opportunity! If you want to support this mission you can mark your donation as Light of Hope in the tithe envelope. More pictures and information here
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PRAYERS. Dorothy Champion is back at Memorial hospital. She is very weak and in a lot of pain. Dorothy’s family is asking for your prayers.
Elaine Stevens fell early on Sunday morning and injured her shoulder. She may be immobilized for the next 12 weeks or so. Elaine has a hard time getting up. Your phone calls, visits, help with cooked food would be very much appreciated.
Cathy Sabo had a medical procedure on her knee. It went well. Cathy is feeling good and greatful for the prayers.
Connie Jones will have a procedure on her knee next week.
RESOURCES. The church weekly bulletin is available on the church website. Click here for the bulletin.
An easy way to give your tithe and offerings is right on our church website. You can fill out the online tithe envelope the same way as you do the paper one. There are actually more departments and ministries listed there. Check it out. It is safe and secure. Choose ONLIVE GIVING from the menu on our church website www.ooltewahchurch.org
ON A PERSONAL NOTE. Last week we cleared our lot. This week we closed on our construction loan. Next week we expect to see the foundation being dug 😃. Please, pray for us. We feel it is time for us to have our own home in Ooltewah.
Happy Sabbath. See you tomorrow.
Peter
Ooltewah Seventh-day Adventist Church 