--BELOVED, I WISH ABOVE ALL THINGS THAT THOU MAYEST PROSPER AND BE IN HEALTH, EVEN AS THY SOUL PROSPERETH--3 john 2 THIS WEBSITE IS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF, AND FOR THE GLORY OF, GOD THE FATHER, GOD THE SON, AND GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT.
YOU ARE ENTERING THE SANCTUARY OF GOD'S MEETING HOUSE. WE PRAY THAT YOU WILL REACH OUT TO THE HOLY SPIRIT AND INVITE HIM INTO YOUR HEART.
PASTOR HOWARD HAS BEEN A CREDENTIALLED MINISTER WITH THE ASSEMBLIES OF GOD FOR OVER 25 YRS.
LET'S PRAISE THE LORD WITH OUR SINGING AND HAVE A WONDERFUL SERVICE THAT BRINGS JOY TO OUR HEARTS. BY SINGING WE CAN EXPRESS OUR PRAISE TO GOD. LET'S GET INTO THE SERVICE WITH SOME MUSIC TO BRIGHTEN THE SOUL.
NOW LET US LIFT OUR VOICES IN SONG AS WE SING AN OLD FAVORITE:CLICK THE BOX TO START THE MUSIC.
AND NOW, PLEASE SING WITH US AND LET YOUR VOICES RING WITH: "HALLELUJAH SQUARE." I saw a blind man tapping along He could not see like you and me I said, Oh mister, I feel sorry for you He said, When I get to heaven, I'll see just like you CHORUS I'll see all my friends in Hallelujah Square What a wonderful time we'll have up there We'll sing and praise Jesus, His glory we'll share There won't be no blind man in Hallelujah Square I saw an ole cripple dragging his leg He could not walk like you and me I said, Oh mister, I feel sorry, so sorry for you He said, When I get to glory, I'll walk just like you CHORUS I'll walk with my friends in Hallelujah Square What a wonderful time we'll have up there We'll sing and praise Jesus, His glory we'll share There won't be no cripple in Hallelujah Square I saw a beggar, begging for bread He did not have food to eat, like you and me I said, Oh, oh mister, I feel sorry, so sorry for you He said , You see, when I get in glory, I'm gonna sit at the table just like you CHORUS I'll see all my friends in Hallelujah Square What a wonderful time we'll have up there We'll sing and praise Jesus, His glory we'll share There won't be no beggar in Hallelujah Square LET's SING ABOUT "WHEN I'VE GONE THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY." If I walk in the pathway of duty, If I work till the close of the day, I shall see the great King in His beauty, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. If for Christ I proclaim the glad story, If I seek for His sheep gone astray, I am sure He will show me His glory, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. And if here I have earnestly striven, And have tried all His will to obey, ’Twill enhance all the rapture of heaven, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. THE SERMON TODAY IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY REV. HAROLD HOWARD. SO JUST RELAX AND ALLOW YOUR SOUL TO BE FILLED AS YOU CONCENTRATE ON GOD. BE ATTENTIVE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT AS HE LEADS YOU.LET'S PRAY GOD'S BLESSING ON THE MESSAGE. DEAR HEAVENLY FATHER: WE COME HERE TODAY TO WORSHIP YOU. WE LOOK FORWARD, DEAR LORD TO YOUR CONTINUED BLESSINGS. WE ASK THAT YOU WOULD BLESS THIS MESSAGE TO OUR HEARTS AND HELP US TO GET CLOSER TO YOU, FOR YOUR GLORY. IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN. REMEMBER ME IN HEAVEN OUR TEXT TODAY IS READ FROM LUKE 23:32-43, 47-49. IF YOU WILL, PLEASE OPEN YOUR BIBLES AND READ WITH ME. I AM READING FROM THE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION--"Two other men, both criminals were led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the skull, there they crucified him along with the criminals--one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, 'Forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing..' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. The people stood watching and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, 'He saved others, let him save himself if He is the Christ of God, the Chosen One.' The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, 'If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.' There was a written notice above him which read, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him, 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us.' But the other criminal rebuked him6. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? We are punished jusly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' Then, he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth. Today you will be with me in Paradise.'" And let's turn over to vv 47-49 and read--"The Centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God, and said, 'Surely, this was a righteous man.' When all the people who had gathered together to witness that sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, includiung the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things." Everybody wants to go to heaven! Some religions try and make it easy, they simply proclaim that there is no hell; therefore everyone goes to heaven automatically. In other religions high price tags may be required, or maybe lots of good works, or big financial gifts might get you in. Men keep trying to come up with clever ways to be eternal but they ignore the best and only way – the gift of God through Jesus Christ, which comes by faith through grace! It is a good thing that God chose the method of salvation for gaining heaven; if it had been good works most people would actually be lost because it would mean that our good works would have to be greater than our bad works – this of course would eliminate last minute salvations since there wouldn’t be enough time to get in enough good works, or we would always be wondering if our tally of good works was large enough over our bad works. You would never know if you are saved until you stood before God and saw the totals! Good works is a lousy system for salvation; even some of our best deeds are done with impure motives and so might be eliminated toward the total count! Fortunately, God made salvation conditioned on 2 simple things; a recognition that we are indeed sinners, (confession) and a willingness to trust Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins (faith in Christ). It is therefore a free gift, but one that many will never receive because they will fail to accept this! If you want to be remembered in heaven you have to confess Jesus on earth!!! The Bible teaches clearly that eternity is real, and the only way to experience it in heaven is through Jesus Christ. What you do with Jesus in time will determine in eternity what Jesus will do with you! There were Varied Representatives (23:32-38.) This was the most important moment in history, and for the future – the most important moment in time! Jesus was (and is!) the focal point of all things! All kinds of people were there that day; they represent the people of all time. Look at the list here of those we know who were around the cross: Criminals, Jews and Gentiles (Romans), Male & females, Soldiers, Regular people, Religious leaders, Secular authorities, Disciples (though most of them fled), Politicians, government employees, Business men, Outcasts, and Foreigners – Simon of Cyrene had carried Jesus’ cross, he was from the area of Libya, North Africa (Mark 15:2) This diverse group of people all stood as witnesses to Jesus’ sacrifice! Just like today, people have been told over and over again about Jesus as God’s sacrifice. Our calendars look back on the time of Christ as the focal point for our marking time; it is A.D. 20xx (fill in the year). No one person has changed the world more than Jesus, our whole western civilization and laws are carved from Christianity and Jesus’ teachings as the Christ! Even unbelieving historians will tell you Jesus has changed the world as we know it! Here they all stood looking at Jesus just as everyone does today! There Were Different Reactions 23:35-38, 47-49.. Notice the reactions which were similar to those of today: The regular people – they stood just watching without getting involved, like many today! The religious rulers – they mocked and sneered at Jesus claiming to be able to save people by simple faith! – This still happens with liberal religions! The military – they took what they could get their hands on, they had no place for this weak surrendering man, they were just carrying out orders! The politicians – they had issued their pronouncements, their interest was order in the nation, sacrificing one man to regain order was politically ok, order was the expedient thing to do and the politically correct thing. The business people in town just wanted things to settle down so people could get on with their normal life of buying and selling. The criminals insulted Jesus, they were mad at everyone, they didn’t care who was hurt. The disciples (the few that stayed around!) stood at a distance, they didn’t want to look too fanatic as followers of Jesus, it could cost them too much! Most people that day were spectators of Christ, the world still is! Everyone hoped for eternal life but when they witnessed the one who could bring it to them they all reacted differently! People still do this, everyone wants to go to heaven but when they are told about Jesus they want to think about it first!!! Or, they don’t want to accept Jesus’ offer of salvation on His terms they want it on their terms! Just like then, our reaction to Jesus will determine the outcome of our life in eternity! The two thieves crucified with Jesus demonstrate the 2 choices we have...and the two possible outcomes!! When facing death there is only one question on everyone’s mind ... WHAT NEXT? The rich don’t think about how their money will help when they are at death’s door. The highly successful business man won’t get special treatment at death’s door. Death is the great leveler of humanity, here we are all equals. We take nothing with us; nothing can help us except being in a right relationship with God! THERE WAS THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. But There Was Rejection! (23:39). One of the criminals crucified with Jesus ignores the important issue of death and looks only for salvation in the moment. He insults Jesus and mockingly asks that if Jesus is such a big-shot then He should save himself and of course them as criminals! Even facing death he mocks the reality of eternal life, thinking only of the here and now and his own freedom! Boy, if this doesn’t represent a large portion of humanity today! So many people are only concerned about the here and now! The sense of this thief’s statement is simple: “If you really are God then prove it by doing something for me now.” There is no faith here, just a demand for self! Jesus only responds to faith! It is tragic that some people will only think of God at death and for most they will still reject Jesus then too if they had all their life before! It is so hard to believe that even in the midst of death this man could coldly reject Jesus as Lord! So many people assume that people will just get saved if given the chance the moment they are facing death, but this is not always true! Some people remain hard to the bitter end! YEARS AGO A SURVIVOR OF A TERRIBLE PLANE CRASH DOWN SOUTH REPORTED ON HOW TERRIBLE THE SCENE WAS INSIDE THE PLANE. HE WAS QUITE SHAKEN AS HE REPORTED HOW PEOPLE REACTED TO THE PROCESS OF DYING MORE THAN THE CRASH ITSELF. HE REPORTED HOW SHOCKED HE WAS TO HEAR PEOPLE CURSING GOD WITH RAISED FISTS AS THEY BURNED ALIVE ... HE REPORTED THAT HE ALWAYS ASSUMED PEOPLE WOULD CRY OUT TO GOD IF THEY KNEW THEY WERE GOING TO PERISH, BUT IN REALITY THEY DIDN’T! THEY CURSED GOD INSTEAD. HE HAS BEEN HAUNTED BY THEIR VOICES CURSING GOD FOR SOME TIME! – SOURCE UNKNOWN But, There Was Repentance (23:40-42.) Evidently one of these thieves had a change of heart ... since they both were earlier reported to have hurled insults at Jesus, this one must have done some soul searching and decided to turn around. Perhaps the way Jesus conducted Himself while being crucified had moved his heart. Jesus’ willingness to forgive those who were killing Him must have moved this man’s heart. Love is a powerful thing. Jesus’ example of love moved this man to change his mind and heart about Jesus. This man does what is necessary to find salvation, he first acknowledges his own guilt and sin – this is confession. God is against the proud heart, the one that says they have no needs! God’s heart is moved by honest confession, the heart that recognizes the reality of sin in our lives! He turns to Jesus after admitting that he deserves the punishment of death and makes a simple request; “JESUS, REMEMBER ME WHEN YOU COME INTO YOUR KINGDOM.” All that mattered now was the future, one that he wanted to be different than what he had lived in the past! This is true repentance, admitting sin while turning to God for wholeness! This thief finds in Jesus what he couldn’t give himself – LIFE! It is a good thing that it was Jesus he turned to, the answer was available! How tragic indeed for someone to be dying and not have the answer to the reality of death! But, There Was Reassurance! (23:43.) Jesus’ heart must have leaped for joy over this one man, the only one in the entire audience who was turning to Him for hope in these dark moments. Out of all those present who were looking at Jesus only one now sought Him out! While all the others stood there interpreting the moment by their own thoughts this one repentant thief was seeking salvation! Jesus does not disappoint him, in fact, clearly the news was GOOD NEWS! Not only will Jesus save him ... But Jesus says to him, “TODAY, YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE!” There would be no delay in honoring this man’s faith! There would not be some long delay in a place called purgatory!!! There would not be eternity in hell though he had lived an entire life selfishly up to this point, faith in Christ even in this last moment changed eternity for him. The assurance Jesus offers was beyond his wildest hopes!! Faith’s rewards are great! You don’t work your way into heaven, you arrive there by faith! The man had made the right decision to turn to Christ. Anyone else would not have been able to save him! How tragic it is that people turn to so many false sources of hope. Today we have the “psychic network on TV” – people looking for hope with their future! People turn to the stock markets to make their future secure, Ha! They turn to mystic religions, all the new age stuff! Which is really old cult stuff repackaged for today. People look everywhere for hope and assurance but there is only one right source, JESUS CHRIST! No matter what they trust in they will be disappointed one day if it wasn’t in Christ that they trusted! What a joy! This man’s life that had been lived so selfishly and tragic ends with eternal life. God will accept anyone who comes, it doesn’t matter what you have done before, in Christ all things are made new! Imagine the other thief on the Day of Judgment; to think he got so close to having eternal life and yet he missed out. How tragic the stories will be of those who came so close and yet missed! NOTHING IS MORE TRAGIC THAN THE STATEMENT OF “ALMOST”... HOW TRAGIC IT IS WHEN YOU ALMOST MISSED HITTING THE OTHER CAR! WHEN THEY ALMOST MADE IT TO THE HOSPITAL, WHEN THEY ALMOST PAID THE BILL ON TIME, WHEN YOU ALMOST HAD THE WINNING NUMBER, WHEN YOU ALMOST GOT SAVED!!! HOW TRAGIC THIS LAST STATEMENT WILL BE ONE DAY WHEN IT IS UTTERED BY MILLIONS WHO WILL FIND THEIR WAY INTO ETERNAL HELL! – SOURCE UNKNOWN Why gamble on your eternal soul? You can be assured of salvation today just by acknowledging your sin and turning to Christ in faith! AND IN CONCLUSION: Jesus Christ is still the central focus of humanity; He marks the transition of time; B.C. & A.D. More importantly, He marks the transition between the temporal and the eternal! He is the central focal point for any hope of eternal salvation! Those who reject Him are lost; those who receive Him will experience eternal bliss! Where will you be? (Taken from an outline of Rev. Dennis Marquardt, Supt. of N. New England Dist. of the Assemblies of God) Now Let's sing "SOFTLY AND TENDERLY" Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals he's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Why should we tary when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me? Why should we linger and heed not his mercies, mercies for you and for me? Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me; shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! O for the wonderful love he has promised, promised for you and for me! Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon, pardon for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! I never like to close a service without knowing that everyone has had a chance to accept Jesus into their heart and become a Christian. If you are one of those today, don't go away without finding the greatest joy in the world. It doesn't matter what your age is (I was 50 yrs old when I found Jesus). He is reaching out to you. Try reaching out to him and your life will be changed dramatically. All it takes is a little prayer from the heart, asking Him to forgive you of your sins and asking Him to come into your heart and become Lord of your life. If you do, let us know and we can rejoice with you and help you all we can. Our email address is on our prayer page. NOW, HOW ABOUT SINGING, "I'M STANDING ON THE SOLID ROCK." Through my disappointments, strife and discontentment I cast my every care on the Lord. No matter what obsession, pain or deep depression I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Even though He's gone now, I don't feel alone, With comfort came the spirit of the Lord. Now with His hand or guide me from temptation hide me I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Now I'm pressing onward, each step leads me homeward I'm trusting in my Savior day by day Close is our relation, firm is it's foundation I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. LET'S CLOSE THE SERVICE WITH. "I AM THINE, O, LORD." I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend! Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK. WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL. OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL. GO TO
I saw a blind man tapping along He could not see like you and me I said, Oh mister, I feel sorry for you He said, When I get to heaven, I'll see just like you
CHORUS I'll see all my friends in Hallelujah Square What a wonderful time we'll have up there We'll sing and praise Jesus, His glory we'll share There won't be no blind man in Hallelujah Square
I saw an ole cripple dragging his leg He could not walk like you and me I said, Oh mister, I feel sorry, so sorry for you He said, When I get to glory, I'll walk just like you
CHORUS I'll walk with my friends in Hallelujah Square What a wonderful time we'll have up there We'll sing and praise Jesus, His glory we'll share There won't be no cripple in Hallelujah Square
I saw a beggar, begging for bread He did not have food to eat, like you and me I said, Oh, oh mister, I feel sorry, so sorry for you He said , You see, when I get in glory, I'm gonna sit at the table just like you
CHORUS I'll see all my friends in Hallelujah Square What a wonderful time we'll have up there We'll sing and praise Jesus, His glory we'll share There won't be no beggar in Hallelujah Square
LET's SING ABOUT "WHEN I'VE GONE THE LAST MILE OF THE WAY." If I walk in the pathway of duty, If I work till the close of the day, I shall see the great King in His beauty, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. If for Christ I proclaim the glad story, If I seek for His sheep gone astray, I am sure He will show me His glory, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. And if here I have earnestly striven, And have tried all His will to obey, ’Twill enhance all the rapture of heaven, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way. THE SERMON TODAY IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY REV. HAROLD HOWARD. SO JUST RELAX AND ALLOW YOUR SOUL TO BE FILLED AS YOU CONCENTRATE ON GOD. BE ATTENTIVE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT AS HE LEADS YOU.LET'S PRAY GOD'S BLESSING ON THE MESSAGE. DEAR HEAVENLY FATHER: WE COME HERE TODAY TO WORSHIP YOU. WE LOOK FORWARD, DEAR LORD TO YOUR CONTINUED BLESSINGS. WE ASK THAT YOU WOULD BLESS THIS MESSAGE TO OUR HEARTS AND HELP US TO GET CLOSER TO YOU, FOR YOUR GLORY. IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN. REMEMBER ME IN HEAVEN OUR TEXT TODAY IS READ FROM LUKE 23:32-43, 47-49. IF YOU WILL, PLEASE OPEN YOUR BIBLES AND READ WITH ME. I AM READING FROM THE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION--"Two other men, both criminals were led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the skull, there they crucified him along with the criminals--one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, 'Forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing..' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. The people stood watching and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, 'He saved others, let him save himself if He is the Christ of God, the Chosen One.' The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, 'If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.' There was a written notice above him which read, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him, 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us.' But the other criminal rebuked him6. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? We are punished jusly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' Then, he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth. Today you will be with me in Paradise.'" And let's turn over to vv 47-49 and read--"The Centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God, and said, 'Surely, this was a righteous man.' When all the people who had gathered together to witness that sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, includiung the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things." Everybody wants to go to heaven! Some religions try and make it easy, they simply proclaim that there is no hell; therefore everyone goes to heaven automatically. In other religions high price tags may be required, or maybe lots of good works, or big financial gifts might get you in. Men keep trying to come up with clever ways to be eternal but they ignore the best and only way – the gift of God through Jesus Christ, which comes by faith through grace! It is a good thing that God chose the method of salvation for gaining heaven; if it had been good works most people would actually be lost because it would mean that our good works would have to be greater than our bad works – this of course would eliminate last minute salvations since there wouldn’t be enough time to get in enough good works, or we would always be wondering if our tally of good works was large enough over our bad works. You would never know if you are saved until you stood before God and saw the totals! Good works is a lousy system for salvation; even some of our best deeds are done with impure motives and so might be eliminated toward the total count! Fortunately, God made salvation conditioned on 2 simple things; a recognition that we are indeed sinners, (confession) and a willingness to trust Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins (faith in Christ). It is therefore a free gift, but one that many will never receive because they will fail to accept this! If you want to be remembered in heaven you have to confess Jesus on earth!!! The Bible teaches clearly that eternity is real, and the only way to experience it in heaven is through Jesus Christ. What you do with Jesus in time will determine in eternity what Jesus will do with you! There were Varied Representatives (23:32-38.) This was the most important moment in history, and for the future – the most important moment in time! Jesus was (and is!) the focal point of all things! All kinds of people were there that day; they represent the people of all time. Look at the list here of those we know who were around the cross: Criminals, Jews and Gentiles (Romans), Male & females, Soldiers, Regular people, Religious leaders, Secular authorities, Disciples (though most of them fled), Politicians, government employees, Business men, Outcasts, and Foreigners – Simon of Cyrene had carried Jesus’ cross, he was from the area of Libya, North Africa (Mark 15:2) This diverse group of people all stood as witnesses to Jesus’ sacrifice! Just like today, people have been told over and over again about Jesus as God’s sacrifice. Our calendars look back on the time of Christ as the focal point for our marking time; it is A.D. 20xx (fill in the year). No one person has changed the world more than Jesus, our whole western civilization and laws are carved from Christianity and Jesus’ teachings as the Christ! Even unbelieving historians will tell you Jesus has changed the world as we know it! Here they all stood looking at Jesus just as everyone does today! There Were Different Reactions 23:35-38, 47-49.. Notice the reactions which were similar to those of today: The regular people – they stood just watching without getting involved, like many today! The religious rulers – they mocked and sneered at Jesus claiming to be able to save people by simple faith! – This still happens with liberal religions! The military – they took what they could get their hands on, they had no place for this weak surrendering man, they were just carrying out orders! The politicians – they had issued their pronouncements, their interest was order in the nation, sacrificing one man to regain order was politically ok, order was the expedient thing to do and the politically correct thing. The business people in town just wanted things to settle down so people could get on with their normal life of buying and selling. The criminals insulted Jesus, they were mad at everyone, they didn’t care who was hurt. The disciples (the few that stayed around!) stood at a distance, they didn’t want to look too fanatic as followers of Jesus, it could cost them too much! Most people that day were spectators of Christ, the world still is! Everyone hoped for eternal life but when they witnessed the one who could bring it to them they all reacted differently! People still do this, everyone wants to go to heaven but when they are told about Jesus they want to think about it first!!! Or, they don’t want to accept Jesus’ offer of salvation on His terms they want it on their terms! Just like then, our reaction to Jesus will determine the outcome of our life in eternity! The two thieves crucified with Jesus demonstrate the 2 choices we have...and the two possible outcomes!! When facing death there is only one question on everyone’s mind ... WHAT NEXT? The rich don’t think about how their money will help when they are at death’s door. The highly successful business man won’t get special treatment at death’s door. Death is the great leveler of humanity, here we are all equals. We take nothing with us; nothing can help us except being in a right relationship with God! THERE WAS THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. But There Was Rejection! (23:39). One of the criminals crucified with Jesus ignores the important issue of death and looks only for salvation in the moment. He insults Jesus and mockingly asks that if Jesus is such a big-shot then He should save himself and of course them as criminals! Even facing death he mocks the reality of eternal life, thinking only of the here and now and his own freedom! Boy, if this doesn’t represent a large portion of humanity today! So many people are only concerned about the here and now! The sense of this thief’s statement is simple: “If you really are God then prove it by doing something for me now.” There is no faith here, just a demand for self! Jesus only responds to faith! It is tragic that some people will only think of God at death and for most they will still reject Jesus then too if they had all their life before! It is so hard to believe that even in the midst of death this man could coldly reject Jesus as Lord! So many people assume that people will just get saved if given the chance the moment they are facing death, but this is not always true! Some people remain hard to the bitter end! YEARS AGO A SURVIVOR OF A TERRIBLE PLANE CRASH DOWN SOUTH REPORTED ON HOW TERRIBLE THE SCENE WAS INSIDE THE PLANE. HE WAS QUITE SHAKEN AS HE REPORTED HOW PEOPLE REACTED TO THE PROCESS OF DYING MORE THAN THE CRASH ITSELF. HE REPORTED HOW SHOCKED HE WAS TO HEAR PEOPLE CURSING GOD WITH RAISED FISTS AS THEY BURNED ALIVE ... HE REPORTED THAT HE ALWAYS ASSUMED PEOPLE WOULD CRY OUT TO GOD IF THEY KNEW THEY WERE GOING TO PERISH, BUT IN REALITY THEY DIDN’T! THEY CURSED GOD INSTEAD. HE HAS BEEN HAUNTED BY THEIR VOICES CURSING GOD FOR SOME TIME! – SOURCE UNKNOWN But, There Was Repentance (23:40-42.) Evidently one of these thieves had a change of heart ... since they both were earlier reported to have hurled insults at Jesus, this one must have done some soul searching and decided to turn around. Perhaps the way Jesus conducted Himself while being crucified had moved his heart. Jesus’ willingness to forgive those who were killing Him must have moved this man’s heart. Love is a powerful thing. Jesus’ example of love moved this man to change his mind and heart about Jesus. This man does what is necessary to find salvation, he first acknowledges his own guilt and sin – this is confession. God is against the proud heart, the one that says they have no needs! God’s heart is moved by honest confession, the heart that recognizes the reality of sin in our lives! He turns to Jesus after admitting that he deserves the punishment of death and makes a simple request; “JESUS, REMEMBER ME WHEN YOU COME INTO YOUR KINGDOM.” All that mattered now was the future, one that he wanted to be different than what he had lived in the past! This is true repentance, admitting sin while turning to God for wholeness! This thief finds in Jesus what he couldn’t give himself – LIFE! It is a good thing that it was Jesus he turned to, the answer was available! How tragic indeed for someone to be dying and not have the answer to the reality of death! But, There Was Reassurance! (23:43.) Jesus’ heart must have leaped for joy over this one man, the only one in the entire audience who was turning to Him for hope in these dark moments. Out of all those present who were looking at Jesus only one now sought Him out! While all the others stood there interpreting the moment by their own thoughts this one repentant thief was seeking salvation! Jesus does not disappoint him, in fact, clearly the news was GOOD NEWS! Not only will Jesus save him ... But Jesus says to him, “TODAY, YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE!” There would be no delay in honoring this man’s faith! There would not be some long delay in a place called purgatory!!! There would not be eternity in hell though he had lived an entire life selfishly up to this point, faith in Christ even in this last moment changed eternity for him. The assurance Jesus offers was beyond his wildest hopes!! Faith’s rewards are great! You don’t work your way into heaven, you arrive there by faith! The man had made the right decision to turn to Christ. Anyone else would not have been able to save him! How tragic it is that people turn to so many false sources of hope. Today we have the “psychic network on TV” – people looking for hope with their future! People turn to the stock markets to make their future secure, Ha! They turn to mystic religions, all the new age stuff! Which is really old cult stuff repackaged for today. People look everywhere for hope and assurance but there is only one right source, JESUS CHRIST! No matter what they trust in they will be disappointed one day if it wasn’t in Christ that they trusted! What a joy! This man’s life that had been lived so selfishly and tragic ends with eternal life. God will accept anyone who comes, it doesn’t matter what you have done before, in Christ all things are made new! Imagine the other thief on the Day of Judgment; to think he got so close to having eternal life and yet he missed out. How tragic the stories will be of those who came so close and yet missed! NOTHING IS MORE TRAGIC THAN THE STATEMENT OF “ALMOST”... HOW TRAGIC IT IS WHEN YOU ALMOST MISSED HITTING THE OTHER CAR! WHEN THEY ALMOST MADE IT TO THE HOSPITAL, WHEN THEY ALMOST PAID THE BILL ON TIME, WHEN YOU ALMOST HAD THE WINNING NUMBER, WHEN YOU ALMOST GOT SAVED!!! HOW TRAGIC THIS LAST STATEMENT WILL BE ONE DAY WHEN IT IS UTTERED BY MILLIONS WHO WILL FIND THEIR WAY INTO ETERNAL HELL! – SOURCE UNKNOWN Why gamble on your eternal soul? You can be assured of salvation today just by acknowledging your sin and turning to Christ in faith! AND IN CONCLUSION: Jesus Christ is still the central focus of humanity; He marks the transition of time; B.C. & A.D. More importantly, He marks the transition between the temporal and the eternal! He is the central focal point for any hope of eternal salvation! Those who reject Him are lost; those who receive Him will experience eternal bliss! Where will you be? (Taken from an outline of Rev. Dennis Marquardt, Supt. of N. New England Dist. of the Assemblies of God) Now Let's sing "SOFTLY AND TENDERLY" Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals he's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Why should we tary when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me? Why should we linger and heed not his mercies, mercies for you and for me? Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me; shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! O for the wonderful love he has promised, promised for you and for me! Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon, pardon for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! I never like to close a service without knowing that everyone has had a chance to accept Jesus into their heart and become a Christian. If you are one of those today, don't go away without finding the greatest joy in the world. It doesn't matter what your age is (I was 50 yrs old when I found Jesus). He is reaching out to you. Try reaching out to him and your life will be changed dramatically. All it takes is a little prayer from the heart, asking Him to forgive you of your sins and asking Him to come into your heart and become Lord of your life. If you do, let us know and we can rejoice with you and help you all we can. Our email address is on our prayer page. NOW, HOW ABOUT SINGING, "I'M STANDING ON THE SOLID ROCK." Through my disappointments, strife and discontentment I cast my every care on the Lord. No matter what obsession, pain or deep depression I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Even though He's gone now, I don't feel alone, With comfort came the spirit of the Lord. Now with His hand or guide me from temptation hide me I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Now I'm pressing onward, each step leads me homeward I'm trusting in my Savior day by day Close is our relation, firm is it's foundation I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. LET'S CLOSE THE SERVICE WITH. "I AM THINE, O, LORD." I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend! Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK. WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL. OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL. GO TO
If I walk in the pathway of duty, If I work till the close of the day, I shall see the great King in His beauty, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way.
Refrain: When I’ve gone the last mile of the way, I will rest at the close of the day; And I know there are joys that await me, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way.
If for Christ I proclaim the glad story, If I seek for His sheep gone astray, I am sure He will show me His glory, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way.
And if here I have earnestly striven, And have tried all His will to obey, ’Twill enhance all the rapture of heaven, When I’ve gone the last mile of the way.
THE SERMON TODAY IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY REV. HAROLD HOWARD. SO JUST RELAX AND ALLOW YOUR SOUL TO BE FILLED AS YOU CONCENTRATE ON GOD. BE ATTENTIVE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT AS HE LEADS YOU.
LET'S PRAY GOD'S BLESSING ON THE MESSAGE. DEAR HEAVENLY FATHER: WE COME HERE TODAY TO WORSHIP YOU. WE LOOK FORWARD, DEAR LORD TO YOUR CONTINUED BLESSINGS. WE ASK THAT YOU WOULD BLESS THIS MESSAGE TO OUR HEARTS AND HELP US TO GET CLOSER TO YOU, FOR YOUR GLORY. IN JESUS' NAME, AMEN.
OUR TEXT TODAY IS READ FROM LUKE 23:32-43, 47-49.
IF YOU WILL, PLEASE OPEN YOUR BIBLES AND READ WITH ME. I AM READING FROM THE NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION--"Two other men, both criminals were led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the skull, there they crucified him along with the criminals--one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, 'Forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing..' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots. The people stood watching and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, 'He saved others, let him save himself if He is the Christ of God, the Chosen One.' The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, 'If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.'
There was a written notice above him which read, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him, 'Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us.' But the other criminal rebuked him6. 'Don't you fear God,' he said, 'since you are under the same sentence? We are punished jusly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.' Then, he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'I tell you the truth. Today you will be with me in Paradise.'"
And let's turn over to vv 47-49 and read--"The Centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God, and said, 'Surely, this was a righteous man.' When all the people who had gathered together to witness that sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. But all those who knew him, includiung the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things."
Everybody wants to go to heaven! Some religions try and make it easy, they simply proclaim that there is no hell; therefore everyone goes to heaven automatically. In other religions high price tags may be required, or maybe lots of good works, or big financial gifts might get you in. Men keep trying to come up with clever ways to be eternal but they ignore the best and only way – the gift of God through Jesus Christ, which comes by faith through grace!
It is a good thing that God chose the method of salvation for gaining heaven; if it had been good works most people would actually be lost because it would mean that our good works would have to be greater than our bad works – this of course would eliminate last minute salvations since there wouldn’t be enough time to get in enough good works, or we would always be wondering if our tally of good works was large enough over our bad works. You would never know if you are saved until you stood before God and saw the totals! Good works is a lousy system for salvation; even some of our best deeds are done with impure motives and so might be eliminated toward the total count!
Fortunately, God made salvation conditioned on 2 simple things; a recognition that we are indeed sinners, (confession) and a willingness to trust Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins (faith in Christ). It is therefore a free gift, but one that many will never receive because they will fail to accept this! If you want to be remembered in heaven you have to confess Jesus on earth!!!
The Bible teaches clearly that eternity is real, and the only way to experience it in heaven is through Jesus Christ. What you do with Jesus in time will determine in eternity what Jesus will do with you!
There were Varied Representatives (23:32-38.) This was the most important moment in history, and for the future – the most important moment in time! Jesus was (and is!) the focal point of all things! All kinds of people were there that day; they represent the people of all time. Look at the list here of those we know who were around the cross: Criminals, Jews and Gentiles (Romans), Male & females, Soldiers, Regular people, Religious leaders, Secular authorities, Disciples (though most of them fled), Politicians, government employees, Business men, Outcasts, and Foreigners – Simon of Cyrene had carried Jesus’ cross, he was from the area of Libya, North Africa (Mark 15:2) This diverse group of people all stood as witnesses to Jesus’ sacrifice!
Just like today, people have been told over and over again about Jesus as God’s sacrifice. Our calendars look back on the time of Christ as the focal point for our marking time; it is A.D. 20xx (fill in the year). No one person has changed the world more than Jesus, our whole western civilization and laws are carved from Christianity and Jesus’ teachings as the Christ! Even unbelieving historians will tell you Jesus has changed the world as we know it! Here they all stood looking at Jesus just as everyone does today!
There Were Different Reactions 23:35-38, 47-49.. Notice the reactions which were similar to those of today: The regular people – they stood just watching without getting involved, like many today! The religious rulers – they mocked and sneered at Jesus claiming to be able to save people by simple faith! – This still happens with liberal religions! The military – they took what they could get their hands on, they had no place for this weak surrendering man, they were just carrying out orders! The politicians – they had issued their pronouncements, their interest was order in the nation, sacrificing one man to regain order was politically ok, order was the expedient thing to do and the politically correct thing. The business people in town just wanted things to settle down so people could get on with their normal life of buying and selling.
The criminals insulted Jesus, they were mad at everyone, they didn’t care who was hurt. The disciples (the few that stayed around!) stood at a distance, they didn’t want to look too fanatic as followers of Jesus, it could cost them too much! Most people that day were spectators of Christ, the world still is!
Everyone hoped for eternal life but when they witnessed the one who could bring it to them they all reacted differently! People still do this, everyone wants to go to heaven but when they are told about Jesus they want to think about it first!!! Or, they don’t want to accept Jesus’ offer of salvation on His terms they want it on their terms! Just like then, our reaction to Jesus will determine the outcome of our life in eternity! The two thieves crucified with Jesus demonstrate the 2 choices we have...and the two possible outcomes!!
When facing death there is only one question on everyone’s mind ... WHAT NEXT? The rich don’t think about how their money will help when they are at death’s door. The highly successful business man won’t get special treatment at death’s door. Death is the great leveler of humanity, here we are all equals. We take nothing with us; nothing can help us except being in a right relationship with God!
THERE WAS THE CONFESSION OF FAITH. But There Was Rejection! (23:39). One of the criminals crucified with Jesus ignores the important issue of death and looks only for salvation in the moment. He insults Jesus and mockingly asks that if Jesus is such a big-shot then He should save himself and of course them as criminals! Even facing death he mocks the reality of eternal life, thinking only of the here and now and his own freedom! Boy, if this doesn’t represent a large portion of humanity today! So many people are only concerned about the here and now! The sense of this thief’s statement is simple: “If you really are God then prove it by doing something for me now.” There is no faith here, just a demand for self! Jesus only responds to faith!
It is tragic that some people will only think of God at death and for most they will still reject Jesus then too if they had all their life before! It is so hard to believe that even in the midst of death this man could coldly reject Jesus as Lord! So many people assume that people will just get saved if given the chance the moment they are facing death, but this is not always true! Some people remain hard to the bitter end!
YEARS AGO A SURVIVOR OF A TERRIBLE PLANE CRASH DOWN SOUTH REPORTED ON HOW TERRIBLE THE SCENE WAS INSIDE THE PLANE. HE WAS QUITE SHAKEN AS HE REPORTED HOW PEOPLE REACTED TO THE PROCESS OF DYING MORE THAN THE CRASH ITSELF. HE REPORTED HOW SHOCKED HE WAS TO HEAR PEOPLE CURSING GOD WITH RAISED FISTS AS THEY BURNED ALIVE ... HE REPORTED THAT HE ALWAYS ASSUMED PEOPLE WOULD CRY OUT TO GOD IF THEY KNEW THEY WERE GOING TO PERISH, BUT IN REALITY THEY DIDN’T! THEY CURSED GOD INSTEAD. HE HAS BEEN HAUNTED BY THEIR VOICES CURSING GOD FOR SOME TIME! – SOURCE UNKNOWN
But, There Was Repentance (23:40-42.) Evidently one of these thieves had a change of heart ... since they both were earlier reported to have hurled insults at Jesus, this one must have done some soul searching and decided to turn around. Perhaps the way Jesus conducted Himself while being crucified had moved his heart. Jesus’ willingness to forgive those who were killing Him must have moved this man’s heart. Love is a powerful thing. Jesus’ example of love moved this man to change his mind and heart about Jesus.
This man does what is necessary to find salvation, he first acknowledges his own guilt and sin – this is confession. God is against the proud heart, the one that says they have no needs! God’s heart is moved by honest confession, the heart that recognizes the reality of sin in our lives!
He turns to Jesus after admitting that he deserves the punishment of death and makes a simple request; “JESUS, REMEMBER ME WHEN YOU COME INTO YOUR KINGDOM.” All that mattered now was the future, one that he wanted to be different than what he had lived in the past! This is true repentance, admitting sin while turning to God for wholeness! This thief finds in Jesus what he couldn’t give himself – LIFE! It is a good thing that it was Jesus he turned to, the answer was available! How tragic indeed for someone to be dying and not have the answer to the reality of death!
But, There Was Reassurance! (23:43.) Jesus’ heart must have leaped for joy over this one man, the only one in the entire audience who was turning to Him for hope in these dark moments. Out of all those present who were looking at Jesus only one now sought Him out! While all the others stood there interpreting the moment by their own thoughts this one repentant thief was seeking salvation!
Jesus does not disappoint him, in fact, clearly the news was GOOD NEWS! Not only will Jesus save him ... But Jesus says to him, “TODAY, YOU WILL BE WITH ME IN PARADISE!”
There would be no delay in honoring this man’s faith! There would not be some long delay in a place called purgatory!!! There would not be eternity in hell though he had lived an entire life selfishly up to this point, faith in Christ even in this last moment changed eternity for him. The assurance Jesus offers was beyond his wildest hopes!! Faith’s rewards are great! You don’t work your way into heaven, you arrive there by faith! The man had made the right decision to turn to Christ. Anyone else would not have been able to save him!
How tragic it is that people turn to so many false sources of hope. Today we have the “psychic network on TV” – people looking for hope with their future! People turn to the stock markets to make their future secure, Ha! They turn to mystic religions, all the new age stuff! Which is really old cult stuff repackaged for today. People look everywhere for hope and assurance but there is only one right source, JESUS CHRIST! No matter what they trust in they will be disappointed one day if it wasn’t in Christ that they trusted!
What a joy! This man’s life that had been lived so selfishly and tragic ends with eternal life. God will accept anyone who comes, it doesn’t matter what you have done before, in Christ all things are made new! Imagine the other thief on the Day of Judgment; to think he got so close to having eternal life and yet he missed out. How tragic the stories will be of those who came so close and yet missed!
NOTHING IS MORE TRAGIC THAN THE STATEMENT OF “ALMOST”... HOW TRAGIC IT IS WHEN YOU ALMOST MISSED HITTING THE OTHER CAR! WHEN THEY ALMOST MADE IT TO THE HOSPITAL, WHEN THEY ALMOST PAID THE BILL ON TIME, WHEN YOU ALMOST HAD THE WINNING NUMBER, WHEN YOU ALMOST GOT SAVED!!! HOW TRAGIC THIS LAST STATEMENT WILL BE ONE DAY WHEN IT IS UTTERED BY MILLIONS WHO WILL FIND THEIR WAY INTO ETERNAL HELL! – SOURCE UNKNOWN
Why gamble on your eternal soul? You can be assured of salvation today just by acknowledging your sin and turning to Christ in faith!
AND IN CONCLUSION: Jesus Christ is still the central focus of humanity; He marks the transition of time; B.C. & A.D. More importantly, He marks the transition between the temporal and the eternal! He is the central focal point for any hope of eternal salvation! Those who reject Him are lost; those who receive Him will experience eternal bliss! Where will you be? (Taken from an outline of Rev. Dennis Marquardt, Supt. of N. New England Dist. of the Assemblies of God) Now Let's sing "SOFTLY AND TENDERLY" Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals he's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Why should we tary when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me? Why should we linger and heed not his mercies, mercies for you and for me? Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me; shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! O for the wonderful love he has promised, promised for you and for me! Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon, pardon for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! I never like to close a service without knowing that everyone has had a chance to accept Jesus into their heart and become a Christian. If you are one of those today, don't go away without finding the greatest joy in the world. It doesn't matter what your age is (I was 50 yrs old when I found Jesus). He is reaching out to you. Try reaching out to him and your life will be changed dramatically. All it takes is a little prayer from the heart, asking Him to forgive you of your sins and asking Him to come into your heart and become Lord of your life. If you do, let us know and we can rejoice with you and help you all we can. Our email address is on our prayer page. NOW, HOW ABOUT SINGING, "I'M STANDING ON THE SOLID ROCK." Through my disappointments, strife and discontentment I cast my every care on the Lord. No matter what obsession, pain or deep depression I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Even though He's gone now, I don't feel alone, With comfort came the spirit of the Lord. Now with His hand or guide me from temptation hide me I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Now I'm pressing onward, each step leads me homeward I'm trusting in my Savior day by day Close is our relation, firm is it's foundation I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. LET'S CLOSE THE SERVICE WITH. "I AM THINE, O, LORD." I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend! Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK. WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL. OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL. GO TO
Now Let's sing "SOFTLY AND TENDERLY" Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals he's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Why should we tary when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me? Why should we linger and heed not his mercies, mercies for you and for me? Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me; shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! O for the wonderful love he has promised, promised for you and for me! Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon, pardon for you and for me. Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home! I never like to close a service without knowing that everyone has had a chance to accept Jesus into their heart and become a Christian. If you are one of those today, don't go away without finding the greatest joy in the world. It doesn't matter what your age is (I was 50 yrs old when I found Jesus). He is reaching out to you. Try reaching out to him and your life will be changed dramatically. All it takes is a little prayer from the heart, asking Him to forgive you of your sins and asking Him to come into your heart and become Lord of your life. If you do, let us know and we can rejoice with you and help you all we can. Our email address is on our prayer page. NOW, HOW ABOUT SINGING, "I'M STANDING ON THE SOLID ROCK." Through my disappointments, strife and discontentment I cast my every care on the Lord. No matter what obsession, pain or deep depression I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Even though He's gone now, I don't feel alone, With comfort came the spirit of the Lord. Now with His hand or guide me from temptation hide me I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Now I'm pressing onward, each step leads me homeward I'm trusting in my Savior day by day Close is our relation, firm is it's foundation I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. LET'S CLOSE THE SERVICE WITH. "I AM THINE, O, LORD." I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend! Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK. WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL. OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL. GO TO
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, calling for you and for me; see, on the portals he's waiting and watching, watching for you and for me.
Refrain: Come home, come home; ye who are weary come home; earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling, calling, O sinner, come home!
Why should we tary when Jesus is pleading, pleading for you and for me? Why should we linger and heed not his mercies, mercies for you and for me?
Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, passing from you and from me; shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming, coming for you and for me.
O for the wonderful love he has promised, promised for you and for me! Though we have sinned, he has mercy and pardon, pardon for you and for me.
I never like to close a service without knowing that everyone has had a chance to accept Jesus into their heart and become a Christian. If you are one of those today, don't go away without finding the greatest joy in the world. It doesn't matter what your age is (I was 50 yrs old when I found Jesus). He is reaching out to you. Try reaching out to him and your life will be changed dramatically. All it takes is a little prayer from the heart, asking Him to forgive you of your sins and asking Him to come into your heart and become Lord of your life. If you do, let us know and we can rejoice with you and help you all we can. Our email address is on our prayer page.
NOW, HOW ABOUT SINGING, "I'M STANDING ON THE SOLID ROCK." Through my disappointments, strife and discontentment I cast my every care on the Lord. No matter what obsession, pain or deep depression I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Even though He's gone now, I don't feel alone, With comfort came the spirit of the Lord. Now with His hand or guide me from temptation hide me I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. Now I'm pressing onward, each step leads me homeward I'm trusting in my Savior day by day Close is our relation, firm is it's foundation I'm standing on the solid rock. Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock. LET'S CLOSE THE SERVICE WITH. "I AM THINE, O, LORD." I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend! Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK. WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL. OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL. GO TO
Through my disappointments, strife and discontentment I cast my every care on the Lord. No matter what obsession, pain or deep depression I'm standing on the solid rock.
Chorus I'm standing on the rock of ages, Safe from all the storm that rages Rich, but not from Satan's wages. I'm standing on the solid rock.
Even though He's gone now, I don't feel alone, With comfort came the spirit of the Lord. Now with His hand or guide me from temptation hide me I'm standing on the solid rock.
Now I'm pressing onward, each step leads me homeward I'm trusting in my Savior day by day Close is our relation, firm is it's foundation I'm standing on the solid rock.
LET'S CLOSE THE SERVICE WITH. "I AM THINE, O, LORD." I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend! Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee. Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side. WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK. WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL. OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL. GO TO
I am thine, O Lord, I have heard thy voice, and it told thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith and be closer drawn to thee.
Refrain: Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to the cross where thou hast died. Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord, to thy precious, bleeding side.
Consecrate me now to thy service, Lord, by the power of grace divine; let my soul look up with a steadfast hope, and my will be lost in thine.
O the pure delight of a single hour that before thy throne I spend, when I kneel in prayer, and with thee, my God, I commune as friend with friend!
There are depths of love that I cannot know till I cross the narrow sea; there are heights of joy that I may not reach till I rest in peace with thee.
WE HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU HAD A GOOD SERVICE TODAY, AND THAT YOU LEAVE THE SERVICE WITH YOUR HEARTS LIFTED AND WITH PRAISE IN YOUR HEARTS TO A GREAT GOD. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU BACK NEXT WEEK.
WE WILL CONTINUALLY TRY TO BETTER THIS SITE AND WE WOULD APPRECIATE ANY COMMENTS YOU WOULD CARE TO SEND US SO THAT WE CAN BRING A SERVICE THAT WILL BE THE BEST POSSIBLE WE CAN BRING. WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR EMAILS,. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. WE LOVE YOU ALL.
OUR PRAYER CENTER IS OPEN AND WE PRAY DAILY FOR EVERY PRAYER THAT COMES IN. JUST SEND YOUR REQUEST BY EMAIL.
GO TO
