Bulletins

August 16, 2009

"Thy Will Be Done"

One of the fast food chains had a slogan: “Have it your way.” No doubt it was popular because everyone seems to want to “have it my way.” Everyone, that is, except Jesus. He seemed determine to have things God’s way. Perhaps that is why he was hated by so many.

There is probably no greater difficulty than that of imitating Jesus in the way that he accepted his death. Yet Peter tells us, “For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps.”

At the age of 12, Jesus was found by his parents in the temple. He was in the midst of a discussion with the teachers there. When his mother asked “Why have you treated us this way?” he replied, in part, “Did you not know that I had to be in my Father’s house?” (or, “about my Father’s business,” depending upon your translation).

Whether in the temple, or at his baptism, or going about his daily business, there was a constant concern for Jesus that he be found doing what his Father wanted him to do. “We must work the works of Him who sent me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work.” As death approached, Jesus said, “What shall I say, ‘Father, save me from this hour?’ But for this purpose I came to this hour.”

It is perhaps impossible to truly fathom the difficulties that Jesus endured during his last week in Jerusalem. There was conflict as he chased the merchants from the temple. There was conflict as he answered the questions of the Pharisees and Sadducees. There was mental anguish as he faced the betrayal by Judas and the defection of the other disciples. Beyond all of this lay his trials, the abuse, the scorn and the crucifixion.

The full range of his feelings was poured out in his prayer to God in the Garden of Gethsemane. “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet not as I will, but as you will.” “Yet not my will, but yours be done,” are Jesus’ words as Luke tells the story.

Singing “All To Jesus I Surrender” will never serve as a substitute for obedience to the will of God, but it surely will pass as a place to begin. The Christian life begins in an act of submission as one is baptized, yet it does not end there. Jesus saves, but God demands submission. Jesus “learned obedience from the things which he suffered. And having been made perfect, he became to all those who obey him the source of eternal salvation.”

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Henrietta Galpin has been in Charlotte Hungerford Hospital with a blood clot. She was hoping to be out of the hospital today.

Þ Rick Paganini is living and working in New Britain.

Þ Don and Esther Roarabaugh will be arriving in Torrington on Tuesday, August 18. They will need help unloading their truck that evening.

Þ We will celebrate Ben Farleman’s high school graduation as well as the arrival of the Roarabaughs with our potluck on August 23.

Þ The Wheelers are away on vacation. Pray that they will have a safe trip home.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Mark Lampognana
Next week—David Cooper

Nursery Assignments

This week—Joanna Lorusso

Next week—Tina Cooper

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Susan Nomelli-Crosley

Next week—Mark Timmons

Lord’s Table

This week—Charles Lazarus

Next Week—Ron Dombrowski
Scripture Reading
This week—Mark Timmons
Next week—David Cooper

Upcoming Events

August 23—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Sept 17-19 Gander Brook Ladies’ Retreat

Sept 24-26 Gander Brook Men’s Retreat

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

“Thy Will Be Done”

Matthew 26:36-46
1 Peter 2:21
Luke 2:49
Matthew 3:15
John 9:4
John 12:27-33
Matthew 21:12-13
Matthew 21:23-27
Matthew 22:15-22
Matthew 22:23-33
Matthew 22:34-46
Proverbs 3:5-7
James 1:17
Isaiah 55:8-9
Romans 12:1-2
Matthew 7:21

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—30

AM Worship—46

PM Worship—10

Wed Study—24

Contribution—$ ?

August 9, 2009

Rich Toward God

Fool is not exactly the word that I want God to use to describe me. Proverbs has a lot to say about being a fool. Psalms tells us that it is the fool who says there is no God. (It is found twice in Psalms, perhaps to make sure one does not miss it!) Jesus told a story about a rich man in which God ends by telling him that he is a fool. It is just a story, but I still would not want God to call me a fool.

The story was prompted by a man who came to Jesus demanding that he make the man’s brother share the inheritance. Jesus refused to become embroiled in such matters. He then told a story about a prosperous farmer. It is the farmer who is called a fool, not because he was a farmer, but because he was concerned only about his barns and his retirement. (I do not plan to “eat, drink and be merry.” I just want to rest and I am moving to a smaller house.)

The rich man was concerned about his crops, his barns and his retirement. There are some other things that probably should have been a concern to him.

He might have been concerned about his family. Perhaps there were parents he could help, or children. Perhaps there were brothers or sisters who could have used some help from him. It is hard to imagine a person who has no family that might need assistance.

He might have been concerned about his neighbors. Jesus said the second most important commandment is to love one’s neighbor. There are always poor people that one might find to help. If the barns were not big enough it would have been a simple matter to take the excess and help someone else.

There are also spiritual concerns that sometimes require physical resources. There might have been a community nearby in need of a synagogue. We know that Jesus once healed the daughter of a Roman centurion who had built a synagogue for the people of Capernaum. If a Roman could do that, how much more might it be expected that a rich Jew would show his gratitude in such a way.

The rich man failed because he was not “rich toward God.” Jesus said, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Don and Esther Roarabaugh will be arriving in Torrington on Tuesday, August 18. They will need help unloading their truck that evening.

Þ We will celebrate Ben Farleman’s high school graduation as well as the arrival of the Roarabaughs with our potluck on August 23.

Þ The Wheelers are away on vacation. Pray that they will have a safe trip home.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney. He has written to express his love for this congregation.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Charles Lazarus
Next week—Mark Lampognana

Nursery Assignments

This week—Susan Saxby

Next week—Joanna Lorusso

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Marie & Barbara

Next week—Susan Nomelli-Crosley

Lord’s Table

This week—Mark Timmons

Next Week—Charles Lazarus
Scripture Reading
This week—Dwight Dildy
Next week—Mark Timmons

Upcoming Events

August 23—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Sept 17-19 Gander Brook Ladies’ Retreat

Sept 24-26 Gander Brook Men’s Retreat

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—27

AM Worship—38

PM Worship—12

Wed Study—42

Contribution—$516

August 2, 2009

Accursed of God

One of the most striking statements in the whole Bible is found in the ninth chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans.”For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for the sake of my brothers.” This is from one who understood very clearly what it meant to be accursed of God!

The value Paul placed on his relationship with God is obvious in the comments he made in letters that he wrote. “I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him.” “Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.” “For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Another passage, written by Luke, quotes Paul, “The church of God which He purchased with His own blood.”

The evidence of Paul’s concern for the Jewish people is seen in his activities after his own conversion. “Immediately he began to proclaim Jesus in the synagogues, saying, ‘He is the Son of God.’” “And he (Paul) was with them, moving about freely in Jerusalem, speaking out boldly in the name of the Lord. And he was talking and arguing with the Hellenistic Jews; but they were attempting to put him to death.” “But going on from Perga, they (Paul and Barnabas) arrived at Pisidian Antioch, and on the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and sat down.” After some preliminary activities, Paul was invited to speak and began to tell them about Jesus. This practice was continue by Paul in all the places to which he traveled. Persecution by the Jews did nothing to dampen Paul’s enthusiasm for preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to them. Nor did it change Paul’s attitude toward them and his desire for their salvation, even at the cost of being accursed himself!

The Bible does not have a popular message, but it does have a message of salvation. Paul, in his letter to Christians at Rome, points everyone to the example of Abraham. Abraham left his country and his family before he heard that God had counted him righteous because of his faith.

What have you left so that you could be saved? What will you leave so that someone else might be saved?

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Please pray that God will lead us to the right decision in the matter of a preacher for this congregation.

Þ Henrietta Galpin’s surgery on Monday went well and she was back with us for our midweek Bible study.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Mark Timmons
Next week—Charles Lazarus

Nursery Assignments

This week—Bonnie Wheeler

Next week—Susan Saxby

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Dave & Tina

Next week—Marie & Barbara

Lord’s Table

This week—Dave Cooper

Next Week—Mark Timmons
Scripture Reading
This week—Mark Lampognana
Next week—Jerry Wheeler

Upcoming Events

August 15—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

Accursed of God

Romans 9:1-5
Matthew 6:19-21
2 Timothy 4:6-8
Philippians 3:4-11
Romans 6:4-5
Colossians 1:13-14
Acts 20:28
Matthew 26:28
Acts 9:20
Acts 9:28-30
Acts 13:50; 14:1-2, 19; 18:1-4; 19:8
1 Corinthians 2:2
1 Corinthians 15:1-2

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—34

AM Worship—54

PM Worship—18

Wed Study—28

Contribution—$1252

July 26, 2009

The Case for Attendance

On a typical Sunday about half of those in attendance here are people who have been baptized over the past 6 years in Torrington. A church in Torrington has been vital to your spiritual progress, for your baptism, for your introduction to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without a church in Torrington, many of you would probably not be Christians today.

The New Testament has many stories of churches beginning. The early chapters of Acts tell us of the beginning of the church in Jerusalem. “So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.” “Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.” “And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they kept right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.” The establishment of the church in Jerusalem was characterized by daily meetings.

The following relates to the churches established by Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary trip. After establishing churches in Antioch, Iconium, Lystra and Derby, they were “strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith.” Later Paul and Silas returned to these churches: “he was traveling through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.” Later, we read again, “So the churches were being strengthened in the faith, and were increasing in number daily.”

The planting of churches, the continued growth of those churches and the strengthening of those churches all involve Christians coming together in a common assembly. Meeting together with the church on Sunday morning, Sunday evening and Wednesday evening is about participating in the growth and the strengthening of the church. The absence of Christians from those meetings contributes to the weakening of the church and does nothing to further the growth of the church. Perhaps it was with this in mind that Paul wrote these words: “not forsaking the assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

Do you have to go to church? Do you need to be strengthened in the faith? Do you have to be in the assembly and encourage others? No. But wanting the church to grow demands that you participate in those assemblies and by your presence be strengthened and encouraged to live a life dedicated to God. The church cannot exist without meeting together.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Joe and Teresa Bryan, from the Falls Church congregation that supports us, were here on a visit on Wednesday.

Þ Henrietta Galpin will be having surgery on Monday.

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who has had a heart transplant.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—David Cooper
Next week—Mark Timmons

Nursery Assignments

This week—Johanna Buckley

Next week—Bonnie Wheeler

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Dwight Dildy

Next week—Dave & Tina

Lord’s Table

This week—Steve Bastin

Next Week—Dave Cooper
Scripture Reading
This week—Jerry Wheeler
Next week—Mark Lampognana

Upcoming Events

Today—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Today—Don and Esther Roarabaugh will be visiting with us as Don is scheduled to preach both services and teach the adult class. We are considering the possibility of them working with this congregation.

August 1—Men’s prayer breakfast.

August 15—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—26

AM Worship—37

PM Worship—11

Wed Study—30

Contribution—$506

July 19, 2009

Parables of the Lost

About 100 years ago, many churches began moving their emphasis to what was called a “social gospel.” In the social gospel it was of first importance to take care of the physical needs of people. Only after their physical needs were met was it deemed appropriate to speak to them about their souls. As time passed, those churches who went down this path put less and less emphasis on the salvation of souls and more and more emphasis on “humanitarian” needs. Today, many of them no longer understand anything about how one is to be saved!

One could put forth any number of theories as to why this happened, but there is no disputing the outcome. Those churches that pursued the social gospel are experiencing alarming declines in numbers and many of their congregations have failed to survive. Churches that preach the old Jerusalem gospel continue to thrive. In the end, those churches that emphasize the need to save souls, will save souls and they will also provide more help for the physical needs of people than those churches that put the social emphasis above the spiritual.

Jesus said he came “to seek and save the lost.” Jesus came to die and his blood was given for the forgiveness of sins. When Mary anointed his body for burial, Jesus said, “She has done a good deed to me. For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you wish you can do good to them; but you do not always have me.” There will always be opportunities to do good to the poor, but if we do not preach the gospel to save their souls, they will be poor forever.

The stories that Jesus told in Luke 15 are about caring for lost souls. The shepherd searches for the one sheep that was lost. The woman searches for the coin that is missing. The father anxiously awaits the return of his lost boy. Heaven rejoices when one sinner repents and is “found.”

It matters not what a person has been, when that person is saved they become a saint. It matters not whether they are poor, naked, hungry and blind, for they have been reunited with God. A full stomach will not save your soul. Three houses, a swimming pool, a high definition TV and a ranch will not get you to heaven. (Not even an iPod.)

Jesus wanted to make sure that his disciples cared about lost people. Thus he told these stories. He wanted us to understand that being lost is the worst thing that can happen to a person. Like a sheep without a shepherd, like a coin mingled with the dirt, like a boy away from his father, God wants every sinner at rest in Him. God bless those who care about the lost.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Debbie Dombrowski is recovering from abdominal surgery a week ago. She is now home from the hospital.

Þ Annie Gildersleeve, a friend of Steve and Maryann continues her recovery from her stroke. She is out of the hospital.

Þ Rick Paganini has moved to New Britain.

Þ Henrietta Galpin will be moving to a new apartment soon.

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who has had a heart transplant.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Mark Lampognana
Next week—David Cooper

Nursery Assignments

This week—Tina Cooper

Next week—Johanna Buckley

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Dan & Marissa

Next week—Dwight Dildy

Lord’s Table

This week—Ron Dombrowski

Next Week—Mark Lampognana
Scripture Reading
This week—Dwight Dildy
Next week—Jerry Wheeler

Upcoming Events

July 26—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

July 26—Don and Esther Roarabaugh will be visiting with us as Don is scheduled to preach both services and teach the adult class. We are considering the possibility of them working with this congregation.

August 1—Men’s prayer breakfast.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

Parables of the Lost

Luke 15:1-7
Luke 15

Those who grumble

Those who rejoice

Those who are lost and do not know the way

Those who are lost and do not know that they are lost

Those who know the way, but do not feel a need to come home to God

The grumblers among the saved

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—26

AM Worship—35

PM Worship—10

Wed Study—22

Contribution—$978

July 12, 2009

Jesus Explains the Scriptures

As one reads through the gospels, it is no surprise that Jesus is called, “Teacher.” Officers sent from the chief priests returned empty handed.. When questioned, they replied, “Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks.”

Luke begins his account of the gospel with a brief explanation of how he acquired his information. He closes his account of the gospel with two references to Jesus explaining the Old Testament Scriptures to his disciples.

Our faith is increased by an understanding of the prophecies that have been fulfilled. Some of the most remarkable of the prophecies are the ones that relate to Jesus. In the Law, in the Prophets and in the Psalms, God predicted the coming of one who would save the world. The details of the birth of that one, his life, his ministry, his death, his resurrection and his ascension to power at the right hand of the Father are all the subject of Old Testament prophecies.

The New Testament is filled with quotations from the Old Testament. These mostly relate to prophecies that were fulfilled by the events that occurred, surrounding the life of Jesus. Those quotations probably reflect what the disciples had learned as Jesus “opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.”

Many theologians, in our time, do not believe in miracles. Therefore, they do not believe in prophecy. The prophecies concerning Jesus, in particular, are troubling to such people. They want to be able to explain everything without recourse to the miraculous. They believe that present processes are sufficient to understand everything in our world. Their minds cannot grasp an infinite God who is able to tell people, before the event, what is going to take place. Their god is not able to foretell the future. Their god is not able to raise the dead to life again. Their lives are impoverished because they do not understand the God who created all things and will bring all things to a conclusion at a time of His choosing.

Matthew, in particular, in his gospel has told us of the prophecies fulfilled in the life and ministry of Jesus. He was among those to whom Jesus opened the Scriptures. It is evident in his writing that he was paying attention to the teaching of Jesus about the prophecies he had fulfilled.

Jesus is the Son of God because he is the one who has fulfilled the prophecies made by those who went before him.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Annie Gildersleeve, a friend of Steve and Maryann continues her recovery from her stroke

Þ Maryann is home with shingles today.

Þ Savannah Dildy has chicken pox.

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who is seriously ill.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Charles Lazarus
Next week—Mark Lampognana

Nursery Assignments

This week—Joanna Lorusso

Next week—Tina Cooper

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Mark Lampognana

Next week—Dan & Marissa

Lord’s Table

This week—Charles Lazarus

Next Week—Ron Dombrowski
Scripture Reading
This week—Dan Greenwood
Next week—Jerry Wheeler

Upcoming Events

July 26—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

August 1—Men’s prayer breakfast.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

Jesus Explains the Scriptures

Luke 24:44-49
Genesis 3:15
Genesis 12:3
Genesis 49:10
Leviticus 16:8-10
Deuteronomy 18:18-19
2 Samuel 7:12-13
Psalm 2:1-6
Psalm 22:16-18
Psalm 110:1
Isaiah 7:14
Isaiah 9:2-7
Isaiah 53:1-12
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Micah 5:2
Zechariah 9:9
Malachi 4:5-6

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—29

AM Worship—40

PM Worship—15

Wed Study—24

Contribution—$1041

July 5, 2009

"I Press On"

The Bible is much more than a “book of rules.” There are rules (who can live without them.) Yet there is much that falls in the category of good advice from God about how to live. Paul’s letter to the church at Philippi is filled with such advice. A passage in chapter three is a good example. “Forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

There are three suggestions that one might take from this passage. First of all, there is a need to forget the past. Yes, we should learn from our mistakes, but there comes a time when we need to “move on.” What others have done to us or against us may have greatly impacted our lives. But there is no need to allow those events to control our future. Others may want to “pigeon hole” us based on what we have done, but we do not have to do the same to ourselves.

Paul’s second suggestion is that we “press on.” There needs to be a clear vision of where we want to go. I want to travel does not qualify as a clear vision. I want to be a better husband, or wife, or parent, or Christian is not a clear vision of where we want to be. Better might be a completion of the sentence: “I will be a better husband by ….” Or, “I will be better equipped to provide for my family by …” Or, I will be a better mother by …” In each case one needs to fill in the blank with specific things that one intends to do. We need to set a time when we will begin to take action to “press on.” We need to set goals along the way that will enable us to measure our success in reaching toward our dreams and hopes.

A third direction that may be derived from Paul’s remarks is the need to persevere. Pressing on is of no value if we quit and return to old ways shortly after beginning a new plan. When one climbs a mountain, one must continue to put one foot in front of another until the summit is reached. Standing still or taking a break by going down hill will not lead to success.

The story of Joseph in the book of Genesis is the story of a young man who had a dream. In spite of many obstacles thrown in his way by his family and by his employer, Joseph persisted in his steady progress toward his goal. His faithfulness led to his success.

Life is full of trouble, but the one who forgets what lies behind, presses on toward the goal and perseveres to the end, will be rewarded. There is no better plan for your life than God’s plan.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Annie Gildersleeve, a friend of Steve and Maryann suffered a stroke this past week and is in the hospital.

Þ Tamara Hargrove’s mission trip to Honduras has been cut short with her return on Thursday. Political unrest dictated the change in plans.

Þ Rachel Burkett, Steve and Maryann’s daughter, has suffered through kidney stones this past week.

Þ Johanna Buckley is home from the hospital and recovering from surgery.

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who is seriously ill.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Mark Timmons
Next week—Charles Lazarus

Nursery Assignments

This week—Susan Saxby

Next week—Joanna Lorusso

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Jerry & Bonnie

Next week—Mark Lampognana

Lord’s Table

This week—Mark Timmons

Next Week—Charles Lazarus
Scripture Reading
This week—Charles Lazarus
Next week—Dan Greenwood

Upcoming Events

July 12—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

August 1—Men’s prayer breakfast.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

“I Press On”

Philippians 3:7-14
2 Corinthians 12:23-27
Philippians 4:13
Revelation 2:10
Hebrews 12:1-2

“Forgetting what is behind”

“Press on” to what is ahead

Persevere to the end

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—24

AM Worship—34

PM Worship—15

Wed Study—28

Contribution—$424.04

June 28, 2009

Can a Man Be Saved By Doing Nothing?

Many religious controversies generate more heat than rational discussion. Arguments in which both sides toss out Scripture only to be “refuted” by Scriptures thrown out by the opponent do nothing to bring understanding. “What about this one?” countered with “What about this one?” deserve an answer, not another Scripture.

Some seem to think that the Protestant Reformation was about grace versus works. It really was not that simple. Luther opposed some works that were being proposed by some people. He did not oppose an understanding that baptism was essential to salvation. Calvin seems to have taken a position that man can do nothing on his own initiative, but rather the sovereignty of God makes God responsible for everything that happens. Luther would seem to have been closer to the Bible than Calvin when it came to understanding the role that people play in their own salvation.

If the sovereignty of God makes man incapable of acting independently of God, then what is one to make of God’s decision to give people the rule over animals, fish and the rest of Creation, per Moses account in Genesis? How is one to understand that prayer is effectual if there is no effect upon God by the person who prays? How is the will of God frustrated by those who will not repent if God is absolutely sovereign?

The Bible presents a picture of God commanding and people having a choice whether they will obey or not. That seems to be the case in the Garden of Eden when Eve reached out her hand and took of the forbidden fruit. That seems to be the case when God instructed Noah and Noah built an ark. Jesus is said (in the letter to the Hebrews) to be the author of salvation to those who obey him. John considers faith and disobedience to be opposites (see John 3:36). The letter to the Hebrews uses unbelief and disobedience as synonyms. (See Hebrews 3:19 and 4:6.)

With a proper understanding of the sovereignty of God and with a proper understanding of faith that obeys, one can easily understand the place of baptism in one’s salvation. Mark 16:16 is not a problem for those who have correctly understood the matter. Neither is Acts 2:38 or 22:16 or 1 Peter 3:21 a problem as well.

When it is understood that we have to make a response in order to be saved, it is a simple matter to find the correct Biblical response that will lead to our salvation. Misunderstanding the sovereignty of God and the nature of faith will leave one confused and in darkness about salvation.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Johanna Buckley is home from the hospital and recovering from surgery.

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who is seriously ill.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Dave Cooper
Next week—Mark Timmons

Nursery Assignments

This week—Bonnie Wheeler

Next week—Susan Saxby

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Mark Timmons

Next week—Jerry & Bonnie

Lord’s Table

This week—Steve Bastin

Next Week—Mark Timmons
Scripture Reading
This week—Mark Lampognana
Next week—Charles Lazarus

Upcoming Events

July 4—Men’s breakfast at the church building.

July 4—Cookout at the Bastin’s house. Everyone is invited at 2 pm. Bring meat to grill and a dish to share.

July 12—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

Can a Man Be Saved By Doing Nothing?

Mark 1:1-11
Genesis 1:28
James 5:16
2 Peter 3:9
Hebrews 5:8-9
John 3:36
Hebrews 3:19
Hebrews 4:6
James 2:24
Acts 2:38
Acts 10:48
Acts 22:16

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—33

AM Worship—46

PM Worship—10

Wed Study—25

Contribution—$513.12

June 21, 2009
A God-Fearing Father

Moses was not a great man until he humbled himself before the Lord at the burning bush. In his last days he wrote the messages we have in the book of Deuteronomy. In a moving passage he speaks of what God desired from those who were fathers in Israel. They were to recognize Yahweh alone as God. They were to love him and let His word dwell in their hearts. They were to diligently teach their sons the commandments of God and remember all the good that Yahweh had done for them.

We do not get to choose our parents, but we do get to choose what kind of parents we will be. Babies may not come with instructions, but God has given us a book on life. That book covers parenting and everything else that is important.

Parenting begins with godliness. The old “do as I say and not as I do” is a recipe for disaster. Righteousness will not be found in the play room until it is found in the living room.

When parents lie, cheat, steal and use abusive and profane language, then do not be surprised when the police come calling to tell the parents about the misdeeds of their children. When parents do not go to church, do not expect that their children will go when they become adults.

Solomon wrote a book about life. It is called Ecclesiastes. In that book he describes a journey to find meaning and concludes that all is vanity (useless). Near the end of the book is the only positive direction one can find. “Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth. . . Fear God and keep His commandments.” He would have done well to have followed that advice instead of the adventures he chose instead. While brought up by a godly father, Solomon soon departed from his father’s ways when he became the king. Instead of being impressed by God he was impressed by the wisdom which God had given him. Amorous adventures led to marriage with many ungodly women who soon turned his heart away from his God.

A God-fearing father is a blessing to every child. To be brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is a prize that every child ought to enjoy. To be led to church, to be led to God, to be led in righteousness by a father is all that any child might ask. May God bless father’s with a vision of what they might become for their own sake and for the sake of their wives and their children. Amen.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Dwight and Wendy Dildy were baptized into Christ on Thursday evening. We welcome them into God’s family and pray that God will bless them in their new life in Christ.

Þ Johanna Buckley had surgery on Monday at Hartford Hospital. Please pray for her successful recovery.

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who is seriously ill.

Þ The neighbor of Penny Harrison has a brain tumor.

Þ Chris Paganini has pancreatitis.

Þ Emerson, Silmara and Nicolas left yesterday for an extended visit to Brazil prior to their move to Canada.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Mark Lampognana
Next week—Dave Cooper

Nursery Assignments

This week—Tina Cooper

Next week—Bonnie Wheeler

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Susan Nomelli-Crosley

Next week—Mark Timmons

Lord’s Table

This week—Charles Lazarus

Next Week—Dave Cooper
Scripture Reading
This week—Jerry Wheeler
Next week—Mark Lampognana

Upcoming Events

June 21-24—Vacation Bible School at the New Milford church. See bulletin board for details.

July 4—Men’s breakfast at the church building.

July 4—Cookout at the Bastin’s house. Everyone is invited at 2 pm. Bring meat to grill and a dish to share.

July 12—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

A God-Fearing Father

Deuteronomy 6:4-15
Ephesians 5:25
1 Timothy 5:8
2 Thessalonians 3:10
John 5:13
Matthew 22:37
Ecclesiastes 3:1
1 Timothy 4:13
Psalm 119:97
Proverbs 3:1-6
1 Peter 3:7
Ecclesiastes 12:13
Romans 13:7-8
Ephesians 6:2
John 4:24

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—34

AM Worship—49

PM Worship—15

Wed Study—27

Contribution—$547

June 14, 2009

A Burning Fire

Jeremiah was a great prophet of God during a disastrous time for God’s people. Unbelief and idolatry were rampant among the people of Judah. Corruption and greed were everywhere. Israel was caught between Babylon to the east and Egypt to the west. Their Israelite neighbors, to the north, had already been overrun and destroyed by the Assyrians. Jerusalem had barely escaped and, but for the help of God, would have fallen as well.

Jeremiah lived through the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. He would be left in the land of Judah with a remnant of God’s people. Those people would then force him to flee, with them, to Egypt where they would end up under Babylonian domination when the Babylonians conquered Egypt.

Jeremiah’s teaching brought him nothing but trouble. At one point he was thrown in a cistern and left to die. An Ethiopian rescued him and saved his life. Kings sometimes sought his counsel. At other times, they cut up the words that he had written on parchment and threw them in the fire. Still Jeremiah continued to proclaim the truth of God.

His haunting cry is found in the 20th chapter of his book. “But if I say, ‘I will not remember Him or speak anymore in His name, then in my heart it becomes like a burning fire shut up in my bones; and I am weary of holding it in, and I cannot endure it.’” He continues by proclaiming, “But the Lord is with me like a dread champion; therefore my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. They will be utterly ashamed because they have failed, with an everlasting disgrace that will not be forgotten.”

There ought to be in us a burning fire to understand people. We ought to understand one another in order that we might fulfill our Biblical obligations to “one another.” We ought to care about the people with whom we worship God. We ought to be constant in our prayers for each other.

There ought to be in us a burning fire to understand God’s word. We need to know what we believe. We need to know why we believe as we do and we need to understand our beliefs so that we can communicate them to others.

There ought to be in us a burning desire to serve the Lord. That desire ought to be expressed in our desire to be with God’s people for worship. That desire ought to be expressed in our daily struggle to live a godly life before unbelievers. That desire ought to find fulfillment in reaching out to lost people to rescue them.

No one can light the fire for you. You will choose to be on fire for the Lord or you will choose to be just a bystander in the war against evil.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ Please pray for Bonnie Wheeler’s friend, Samantha, who is seriously ill.

Þ Frank Paganini was not able to be with us on Wednesday because of severe pain in his legs.

Þ The neighbor of Penny Harrison has a brain tumor.

Þ Chris Paganini has pancreatitis.

Þ Emerson, Silmara and Nicolas will be leaving on June 20 for an extended visit to Brazil prior to their move to Canada.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Charles Lazarus
Next week—Mark Lampognana

Nursery Assignments

This week—Joanna Lorusso

Next week—Tina Cooper

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Marie & Barbara

Next week—Susan Nomelli-Crosley

Lord’s Table

This week—Charles Lazarus

Next Week—Ron Dombrowski
Scripture Reading
This week—Dan Greenwood
Next week—Jerry Wheeler

Upcoming Events

June 20—Youth group activity. Details to follow.

July 4—Men’s breakfast at the church building.

July 12—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

A Burning Fire

Jeremiah 20:7-13
Hebrews 10:23-25
Mark 6:34
James 5:16
2 Timothy 1:12
1 Peter 3:15
Deuteronomy 16:16
Leviticus 1:3
Psalm 122:1
Romans 12:1
Matthew 28:18-20
Mark 16:15-20
Luke 24:46-47
Acts 1:8

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—38

AM Worship—50

PM Worship—25

Wed Study—36

Contribution—$1082

May 31, 2009

Leadership for Christ

Everyone has a stake in leadership. Those who lead need to understand the demands of leadership. Those who follow need to understand the kind of leaders they need to follow and make their choices accordingly.

The Bible provides all the information that is needed for a godly leader. It gives qualifications for those who are to be leaders. It gives great examples of leaders, showing clearly the good leaders and the bad. Among the great leaders in the Bible are men such as Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus and Paul (in chronological order).

The first demand of a great leader is commitment to a set of principles, or ideals. Great leaders (for those who follow Jesus) are people who have made a great commitment to Jesus. They have committed their time and their resources to the kingdom of God. They lead by doing, not by talking. They lead in the right way because they are going in the right way.

Great leaders are people of great humility. They understand that they are nothing without the help of God. They understand that everything is dependent upon God and they are willing to be used by Him in service to others. Their concern is for those who follow them. Personal achievements are unimportant. The glory belongs to God.

Those who lead must understand that God is the best source for information. His Word is their daily food. Bibles are meant to be worn and dog-eared. God’s Word in the heart is the best hope for a successful life. The Scriptures are meant to be read, to be studied, to be memorized. Meditation upon the Words of God is the key that unlocks the door to greatness. What others have said about the Bible may be useful and great leaders learn from others who seek first the kingdom of God.

Leaders for Christ do not wait to be told what to do. They see the opportunities that God sets before them and seize them with zeal and determination. They are always looking for ways in which they can carry out the will of God in their own lives. They not only generate new ways of doing old things, but they are on the front lines of those who put ideas into practice. They understand that an idea is of no use until it is produces fruit.

God is looking for mothers and fathers who will lead their families in spiritual matters. He is looking for young people who will lead their friends to Christ. He seeks Christians who will seek to win others, who will care for those in need, who will teach and sacrifice that others might reach heaven with them. God seeks those who will count the cost and take up their cross to follow Jesus.

News, Notes & Prayer Requests

Þ We appreciate the good work that was done by those who filled in for us in our absence. We thank Ron, Charles and Glenda for teaching our classes. We thank David and Mark for preaching.

Þ Bonnie Wheeler’s grandmother passed away. Her funeral was on Friday.

Þ Emerson, Silmara and Nicolas will be leaving on June 20 for an extended visit to Brazil prior to their move to Canada.

Þ There are several books on the table at the door when you come in that are available at no charge. You may take copies to give friends as well.

Þ Pray for the men who are seeking a new preacher for this congregation.

Þ Pray for Marissa Greenwood that her pregnancy will go well.

Þ Please continue to pray for Louis McBurney.

Þ Tell your friends about our program on Channel 5 of Cablevision. “In Search of the Lord’s Way” is scheduled to be broadcast each Saturday at 6:30 p.m.

Þ Get in touch with those who are absent. Pray for them and reach out to encourage them.

Þ Remember the times when you have been discouraged. “And this commandment we have from Him, that the one who loves God should love his brother also.” (1 John 4:21)

Usher Assignments

This week—Emerson Guimaraes
Next week—Mark Timmons

Nursery Assignments

This week—Bonnie Wheeler

Next week—Susan Saxby

Cleaning Assignments (after Wed)

This week—Emerson & Silmara

Next week—Dave & Tina

Lord’s Table

This week—Emerson Guimaraes

Next Week—Mark Timmons
Scripture Reading
This week—Mark Timmons
Next week—Dave Cooper

Upcoming Events

June 6—Men’s prayer breakfast.

June 7—Michael Meals will be preaching and teaching here. He is interested in coming to Torrington to work with this congregation.

June 7—Congregational potluck dinner following the morning service

June 12 and 13 - Men’s retreat at Kent, CT.

June 13—Congregational fellowship at the Greenwoods to give our blessing to Emerson, Silmara and Nicolas as they leave this congregation. We will begin at 4 pm. Meat and buns will be furnished. Please bring a side dish to share.

Please check the bulletin board for other events and items of interest among our brethren.

Bible Notes

Leadership for Christ

Abraham—Genesis 12-15

Moses—Deuteronomy

David—2 Samuel 12:1-15

Jesus—Matthew 26:36-68

Paul—Philippians 3:2-16

Matthew 5:3
Ephesians 4:1-2
Colossians 3:12
Luke 14:25-35

Record Last Week

Sun Bible Study—21

AM Worship—37

PM Worship—18

Wed Study—23

Contribution—$403

send e-mail to writer