Man, today's Easter church service was awesome! Today about 9 people gave their testimonies infront of a packed sanctuary and were baptized. There is a big screen at the front of the church and each person made a video of their testimony and each one was played on the screen. Many of them were touching and each one was unique. One guy was over 50 years old, another was 17. One had an analytical point of view, and another was practical. It was amazing to see and hear each special testimony. My spirit smiled inside as I saw each one getting baptized. There's nothing quite like relating to another persons' experience and knowing exactly what it takes to profess christ in front of others. I was extremely happy for those people today. I even saw a friend of mine get baptized today, that was touching. The clapping and cheering after each one was raised from the water was great to hear. I don't know about you, but I truly felt the presence of God today in the service. And the benediction was absolutely great! I'm sure a lot of people were touched by it, including me.
There was a presentation by the kids ministry where a group of kids had sticks in their hands and did actions to a song that talked about the Resurrection. I don't know about you, but kids have a particular impact on me that no preacher has yet to beat. There is nothing quite like seeing a bunch of God's children proclaiming his truth in such a simple, yet powerful way. And our pastor was right on with his sermon. I just love getting that joyful feeling inside when I nod and understand the truths of God. It's always refreshing and renewing in both spirit and mind to connect with a person, namely the pastor, with God's truth.
Because Jesus is alive today...
1)His purpose is still to bring life,
"Jesus said, 'I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.'" John 10:10 NIV
"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through Him." John 3:17
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'" Jeremiah 29:11
2)His power is still available,
"I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 1:19, 20
"I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me." Philippians 4:13
3)and His promises are still reliable.
"Now we live with a wonderful expectation because Jesus Christ rose again from the dead." 1 Peter 1:3b !!
"If you confess with you mouth 'Jesus is Lord' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9
"I assure you, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me will have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24
We have new life NOW! Our God is risen. Christ is very much alive and moving. I dont know about you, but that makes me want to SHOUT and CELEBRATE!! Wohoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
I love Easter Sunday!
There was a presentation by the kids ministry where a group of kids had sticks in their hands and did actions to a song that talked about the Resurrection. I don't know about you, but kids have a particular impact on me that no preacher has yet to beat. There is nothing quite like seeing a bunch of God's children proclaiming his truth in such a simple, yet powerful way. And our pastor was right on with his sermon. I just love getting that joyful feeling inside when I nod and understand the truths of God. It's always refreshing and renewing in both spirit and mind to connect with a person, namely the pastor, with God's truth.
Because Jesus is alive today...
1)His purpose is still to bring life,
"Jesus said, 'I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full.'" John 10:10 NIV
"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through Him." John 3:17
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.'" Jeremiah 29:11
2)His power is still available,
"I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 1:19, 20
"I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me." Philippians 4:13
3)and His promises are still reliable.
"Now we live with a wonderful expectation because Jesus Christ rose again from the dead." 1 Peter 1:3b !!
"If you confess with you mouth 'Jesus is Lord' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Romans 10:9
"I assure you, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me will have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. John 5:24
We have new life NOW! Our God is risen. Christ is very much alive and moving. I dont know about you, but that makes me want to SHOUT and CELEBRATE!! Wohoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
I love Easter Sunday!
