TGC is in Korea! - Pray for The Team and Beyond

Our team from Trinity Grace Church made it to South Korea!

God was kind. In spite of all the continued restrictions for Covid, paperwork, and long flights, the team made it to Seoul and are now enjoying fellowship with our sister church in Korea. Praise the Lord!

This year’s trip consists of a conference & an English camp. Songwhan & Pastor Walt are leading a conference beginning today entitled Above All Earthly Fears—seeking to address the difficult days we are living in & the need to trust God. This conference is open to all church members, as well as friends, neighbors, etc. 

During the sessions of the conference, the mission team is conducting an English camp for the youth of Lord’s Grace Church. It’s kind of a combination of ESL and VBS!

In addition to the members from Cornerstone Church of Knoxville, please be praying for Abbi-Jean Howard, Rachel and Tim Wilson, and Pastor Walt this week.

Pray for:

• Continued health and energy

• Many people to attend the conference and ESL camp

• Songwhan and Walt’s leadership of the conference

• Rich fellowship in the Lord that transcends language and culture

• The encouragement of Lord’s Grace Church

Introducing The New Sovereign Grace Missions Newsletter

For us in Sovereign Grace, we see global missions as “the great commission work of making and maturing disciples around the world.” This is something that Jesus himself calls us to in Matt 28.18-20, when he says,

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

We’re therefore passionate about this. Knowing that Jesus is always with us, we’re eager to embrace this call and run into this mission, with both purpose and faith. And this new newsletter and blog, taking over from the Emerging Nations newsletter and blog, is the joyful reporting of the fruit of those endeavors.

Make no mistake, it is all the Lord’s doing. In our global endeavors to establish new congregations (Church Planting), partner in new places (Emerging Nations) and reach new cultures (Missionaries), it is Jesus who is leading and strengthening the charge. Wherever we are, it is always His doing, and so what a joy it is to tell you about what He’s doing!!

Please feel free to help us spread the word about this newsletter and blog. You can access it directly here (www.sgcmissions.org/blog) or sign up for the monthly newsletter at the bottom of the page here (www.sgcmissions.org).

Things to Pray for In June

John Piper says that "prayer equals dependence on God” and when it comes then to all that we have planned globally, oh how we need Him! Here’s some headlines for you on how you can be praying for the work of Sovereign Grace Churches around the world in June...

• Please pray for Joselo Mercado (Lead Pastor of Iglesia Gracia Soberana in Gaithersburg), as he heads to Colombia (7-15th June) to spend time with two churches that are seeking adoption into SGC: Iglesia Soberana Gracia, Santa Marta and Iglesia Biblica de la ciudad en Barranquilla. He then heads to the Dominican Republic (15-20th June) to give a main session at the Por Su Causa, a conference run by our friend Miguel Nuñez. This is a big platform to share the gospel of Grace and the centrality of Jesus in everything. Please pray for much grace and favour for Joselo as he serves in this way.

• Please pray for Andy Farmer (Pastor in Covenant Fellowship, Glen Mills, USA) as he leads the final US Church Planting Cohort retreat (3rd-5th June) for the 2021-2022 intake. Each of the men involved in this cohort face distinct opportunities and obstacles, as relating to mission, and so please pray that this time will bring Holy Spirit illumination and faith as they spend time together as a group.

• Please pray for Jeffrey Jo (Lead Pastor of CCSGM, Manila, Philippines), as he leads a team to Surigao del Sur, Philippines (23-29th June) to lead a mid-year leadership conference. In addition to the 13 churches that we have in that region, that are presently ‘SG Candidate Churches’, we are expecting around 130 church leaders at that conference, with so many showing a keen interest in Sovereign Grace. Please pray for protection, provision and Gospel-passion in their hearts. Please also pray for the two elders that will be staying behind for three weeks to minister and strengthen the thirteen churches that are already involved with us.

• Please pray for Dyonah Thomas (Lead Pastor of Gracelife Church, in Monrovia, Liberia) as he prepares for the launch of the ‘Sovereign Grace West Africa Pastors & Planters Academy’, at the end of this month. There will be 10 students attending with their families, on a full-time basis, coming from four different countries - Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Ivory Coast. We’re so excited to see this coming together, as we plan for a number of SG West Africa Church Plants in 2023-25.

• Please continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Ukraine, and in particular those that are connected to us through Jeff Purswell and the Arche Church in Hamburg, Germany. In their own words, “Please pray that the Lord will give His peace in the hearts of believers and remove all fear. For the Gospel of Jesus to be a stronghold and a strong foundation in rebellious circumstances. For believers to support one another and keep their eyes on Christ. And for Christians to witness the Gospel to unbelievers and help them find peace in Jesus.” May they know His nearness and peace at this time, even in their darkest hour.

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

To Everything There Is A Season

June 12, 2022 || Ecclesiastes 3:1-15

MAIN POINT: Enjoy life by fearing God even when you can’t understand all that he’s doing

1. A poem about the times (v. 1-9)

2. The purpose of the times (v. 10-15)

“No matter what time it is, we learn to adjust to it on the basis of the hope and purpose that God is in it, that everything has a beauty to it by which the Preacher declares that every disquieting and delightful moment under the sun has been fitted by God for his purposes. With God, everything fits, nothing is wasted or lost. God does not abandon one second of life under the sun. No disquiet is God-forsaken. No true delight is God-neglected” Zack Eswine

If you missed this past Sunday, want to listen to the sermon again, or couldn’t write the quotes down fast enough, we have links for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

School is out and many families are in vacation-mode. As a result, we will not be having the Learners Class (Kindergarten-2nd) through June and July. Please note, the Crawlers (0-2yrs) and the Walkers (3-5yrs) will still have their classes throughout the summer. But, the Learners will be with their families during the service. This will provide a nice summer break for our kid volunteers and afford families the opportunity to worship together!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Family Hike & Picnic

WHAT: Pack up some lunch and the whole family for a Trinity Grace Family Hike and Picnic!

WHEN: Saturday, June 18, 10am - 2pm

WHERE: Chilhowee Recreation Area - 3171 US-64, Benton, TN 37307

Baby Dedications

We will have a baby dedication on Sunday, June 19. If you would like to participate, please click the button to sign up below.

Picnic At The Pad

Pack up the kids and a lunch, and join other Trinity Grace families for a Picnic at the Pad!

AGES: 0-8 years

WHERE: Athens Regional Park Splash Pad - 2405 Decatur Pike, Athens, TN 37303

WHEN: June 21 from 11am - 2 pm

Picnic At The Pool

Pack up the kids and a lunch, and join other Trinity Grace families for a Picnic at the Pool!

AGES: 2-12 years

WHERE: The Ball’s House - 1155 Highway 305
Athens, TN 37303

WHEN: June 23 from 11am - 2 pm

Sunday Preview: June 5, 2022 at the YMCA

Each Sunday, the pastors carefully put together an order of worship for us.

In an effort to help you prepare your heart & your family, we have included this Sunday’s order of worship below, as well as some important information. All the Scripture readings are noted. Links to videos of all the songs are included as well.

MEETING REMINDER

When: 10:30 am

Where: The YMCA - 205 Knoxville Ave

THE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Sunday, June 5, 2022

Doxology

Call to Worship: Psalm 113:1-3

Psalm 150 (Praise The Lord)

Blessed Be Your Name

Scripture Reading: 1 Timothy 1:15-17

Bless The Lord O My Soul (Psalm 103)

My Hope Is Built

Sermon: Ecclesiastes 2:12-26 || Getting Better All The Time

O Great God

Benediction

How To Enjoy MooFest As A Christian

MooFest is an annual festival put on by the good folks in the city of Athens to celebrate the historical and economic contributions of the dairy industry. There will be live music, Mayfield Dairy contests, local shopping, and over 200 food and craft vendors. Festivals such as this draw thousands of people. So, is it worth your time? Should you go to something like this as a Christian? Why or why not?

Be A Christian All Day Every Day

Maybe it’s a strange thing to even ask the question if you should go as a Christian. Perhaps that’s never even crossed your mind. However, we must never divorce our faith on Sunday from the rest of the week! Galatians 5:20 says “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” So, we are to live with a God-entranced vision of all things as we go throughout every facet of our days - from the Sunday service, to changing diapers, to shopping for groceries, to working at the office, to going to festivals.

How Should We Relate To Culture?

So, if living for Christ is at the forefront of your mind in deciding to go to a festival, why should you consider going? Perhaps you have some hesitation in jumping into any festival - let alone MooFest. It’s certainly wise to consider the content of an event like this. But how do you determine if it’s ok to go? This question applies to much more than MooFest, so the principles of discernment can be used in many other contexts. Really, what we’re after is considering what the bible has to say about engaging culture. Should we distance ourselves from anything unrelated to the church? Should we create our own counterculture? Should we engage in things in our community? And to what extent? Though we can’t explore all of these things in detail here, I’d like to offer a few principles that can help us get a start.

Start With The Bible’s Teaching

First, we need to start with scripture. God made everything. He is the Creator and originator. He has much to say about how he designed the world and the purposes for which things were created. He has not left us without guidance on how we are to understand the world and how to relate to it. 1 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us that: “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” He has not spoken exhaustively, but he has spoken sufficiently for us to know how to discern appropriate, God-honoring ways to interact with the world around us.

Our Relationship To Created Things

Second, we must remember the things of the earth are not inherently evil. They are made by God and he declared them good. However, the way we relate to the things he created can be good or evil. For instance, food is morally neutral. It can be morally good to eat food to have energy to serve God throughout your day. However, you can also over-indulge in food and it is gluttony! So, the way we engage God’s world makes a massive difference. 

Recognize That Culture Is Fallen

Third, we need to recognize that culture is fallen. Culture, in its simplest definition, is what we do with what God has made. Language, food, beverage, art, institutions, festivals are all forms of people interacting with what God has made. Though these things are morally neutral, the world is fallen in sin and mankind is fallen in sin. So, sin impacts our creation and use of these various forms of culture. Needles can be used to save lives or to inject illegal drugs. The needle is morally neutral, but the use of the needle can either bring life or death. The same is true of all aspects of culture. It will always be a mixture of good and bad. So, we need to be able to use discernment to be able to tell the difference between God-honoring and God-dishonoring aspects of culture.

Isolationism Is Not The Goal

Fourth, we as Christians are a part of culture in our locale. Ultimately, the goal of isolating ourselves from every sinner is not possible in this world, nor is it a biblical concept. Look at what Paul says in 1 Cor. 5:

1Co 5:9-11 ESV - 9 I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people-- 10 not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. 11 But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler--not even to eat with such a one.

What Paul is distinguishing for us is how to relate to someone who bears the name of Christian and yet indulges in a habitual pattern of sin that brings dishonor to God. Paul is calling brothers from a local church to NOT pretend like everything is cool if a dude is sleeping with his father’s wife. Rather, they are to lovingly confront someone who claims to be a brother and is living in blatant, unrepentant sin (Matt. 18). And if this brother insists on living that way, then the members of the church are to distance themselves.

However, notice that Paul distinguishes this from church members interacting with those in the world! To try to isolate yourself from the sexually immoral, greedy, swindler, or idolater would be an impossible task. Paul says you would have to launch into outer space to accomplish that! Isolationism is not the goal of the Christian life.

Think In Terms Of The Great Commission

Fifth, we need to view culture through the lens of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20). If we are not to be isolationist, then we must be discerning engagers of the world around us. How did the Corinthians become Christians in the first place? In the very next chapter, Paul reminds the Corinthians of where they came from:

1Co 6:9-11 ESV - 9 Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, 10 nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.

Paul rubbed shoulders with sinners in public. He was not an isolationist. Rather, he sought opportunities to engage people in the workplace and other facets of Corinthian culture. Paul was a tentmaker. It was here that he connected with a couple of Jewish refugees from Italy, Aquila and Priscilla, that became his partners in ministry (see Acts 18). Doubtless, it was through relationship networks in the everyday spheres of life that led so many Corinthians to place their faith in Christ.

Notice that it does not mention Paul going into the depths of a temple prostitution ring. I trust that it’s clear Paul is using discernment about where he engaged. He was afforded some wonderful relational connections through the common points afforded by God’s grace. He was a trained tentmaker and God gave him good work to do and allowed him contact with unbelievers. The temple prostitutes may have been out of bounds for Paul’s ministry. But, perhaps Priscilla had an appropriate point of contact for which God had positioned her. The point being, we must use discernment about how God has positioned us and wired us. Do not intentionally throw yourself into temptation. Use discernment when engaging culture.

Common Grace At MooFest

So, as we think through how and why we engage culture, I would like to suggest that a festival such as MooFest - though not a church event - offers several good things that I believe God loves. These are areas of what theologians call “common grace.” Sam Storms defines common grace this way: “expressions of the goodness of God, falling short of salvation, which this undeserving and sin-cursed world enjoys at the hand of God; this includes the delay of wrath, the mitigation of our sin-natures, natural events that lead to prosperity, and all gifts that human use and enjoy naturally.” Some areas of “common grace” we are afforded through MooFest would include:

• A family-oriented community event

• Good food and drinks to enjoy

• The joy of music and dance

• Enjoyable weather

• Economic opportunity for local vendors

• Economic stimulation of the local economy

• Neutral venue to invite unbelieving friends to

• Opportunity to connect with people outside your normal sphere

• Celebration of God’s kindness to our community through the dairy industry

• An event that unifies people around things that bring life and health, rather than death

Consider Going!

The list could go on! Use discernment in how to relate to music, food, people, and language. Perhaps there will be an opportunity to teach your kids or to reflect in your own heart about the kindness of God’s deliverance from the bondage of sin. However, I would encourage you to consider participating and enjoying the many wonderful gifts an event like this offers.

Click below for more info about MooFest

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

Trusting God

May 29, 2022 || Psalm 146

Main point: Praise the Lord! For He never fails to deliver the needy!

1. Do not trust in dying men.

2. Trust in the living God.

3. How trusting God works.

“Ye people, pour out your heart before him. His heart is set on you, lay bare your hearts to him. Turn the vessel of your soul upside down in his secret presence, and let your inmost thoughts, desires, sorrows, and sins be poured out like water. Hide nothing from him, for you can hide nothing. Whatever he may be to others, his own people have a peculiar heritage in him; for us he is undoubtedly a refuge. Prayer is peculiarly the duty of those to whom the Lord has specially revealed himself as their defense.” Charles Spurgeon

If you missed this past Sunday or want to listen to the sermon again, we have link for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

School is out and many families are in vacation-mode. As a result, we will not be having the Learners Class (Kindergarten-2nd) through June and July. Please note, the Crawlers (0-2yrs) and the Walkers (3-5yrs) will still have their classes throughout the summer. But, the Learners will be with their families during the service. This will provide a nice summer break for our kid volunteers and afford families the opportunity to worship together!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Baby Dedications

We will have a baby dedication on Sunday, June 19. If you would like to participate, please click the button to sign up below.

MooFest

This Saturday is MooFest in Downtown Athens!

Come and enjoy the sights, sounds, and celebration with our Athens community.

Click the link below for more information.

Sunday Preview: May 29, 2022 at the YMCA

YMCA Food Drive

This Sunday, we will be collecting non-perishable food items to help the YMCA provide meals for families in need.

You can drop off your donations on Sunday in the designated container located in the glass lobby of the YMCA.

Family Worship Sunday

This Sunday, we will be enjoying worship with all of our Trinity Grace Family Members! There will be no TGKids and there will be pizza after the service.

Be sure to bring lawn chairs and blankets and plan to linger and enjoy the fellowship after the service!

Each Sunday, the pastors carefully put together an order of worship for us.

In an effort to help you prepare your heart & your family, we have included this Sunday’s order of worship below, as well as some important information. All the Scripture readings are noted. Links to videos of all the songs are included as well.

MEETING REMINDER

When: 10:30 am

Where: The YMCA - 205 Knoxville Ave

THE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Sunday, May 29, 2022

Doxology

Call to Worship: Isaiah 12:3-6

Come Thou Fount

How Great (Psalm 145)

Scripture Reading: Matthew 13:44

He Is Jesus

Sermon: Psalm 146 // Trust In God

Jesus Thank You

Jesus Strong And Kind

Benediction: Ephesians 3:20-21

Fifth Sunday Family Worship

This Sunday is the fifth Sunday in May. This year, each time we come upon a five-Sunday month we plan to seize it for what we are calling Family Sunday. It’ll be a Sunday in which the whole church family stays together for the whole service. It’s so new & fresh—the church has only been doing it for hundreds of years!

So, Sunday we will gather as a whole church family to worship God. It’ll be a time for us to remember two important things:

1. We are all called to worship God. 

The purpose of God through the Bible is this: that God would be our God & we would worship him together as the people of God, united in Christ, by the Holy Spirit.

The world views children as people who need to learn more before they belong.

But not Jesus. Jesus said, let the little children come & worship me.

So, gathering all of us together to worship can make a loud statement to these children that we don’t view them as too young, or too distracting, or too difficult to come to Jesus. 

2. We are all called to train up future worshippers of God.

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. Psalm 78:4

So, too, we are called to do the same for the next generation. Our current membership is 94 adults & 88 kids, with more on the way! So, as we gather the whole church family into the service on Sunday morning, we should think: We have the privilege of supporting these children and their families, let’s be a blessing to them together.

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR PARENTS OF LITTLE ONES: 

• Help your children engage with the service by sitting up front where they can see & hear what’s going on.

• Take time to explain what is going on throughout the service. What does that Scripture reading mean? What is the purpose of our prayer?

• Prepare them ahead of time by reading the scripture and notes for Sunday a few times before the service. This will help them engage with Walt while he preaches because they will be hearing familiar words.

  • Scripture: Philippians 2:14-16a

• Know that your church loves you and your children! You have been prayed for, and we are so excited to enjoy worshiping the Lord together with you and your family. Come expectant for what the Lord is going to do!

ENCOURAGEMENT FOR OTHER FOLKS:

• Please welcome the children with a smile of encouragement! The ways we welcome them or fail to welcome them directly affect the way they view God & the church.

• Remember that children are a gift to the church.

• Consider sitting with one of the families with young children to see how you can support them - by offering to hold babies, helping preschoolers with their sermon outlines, and giving words of encouragement to our young learners.

To cap off the Family Sunday, we’re going to enjoy a pizza lunch together right after the service!

We want to be a church that does not hide from our children the glorious deeds of the Lord. Let us make him known throughout the world, beginning in our families. 

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

Is There Meaning In Life

May 22, 2022 || Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:11

Main point: Christ is the meaning of life! Run to Him; cling to Him; rejoice in Him!

1. Is the meaning of life in wisdom?

2. Is the meaning of life in pleasure?

3. Is there meaning in life?

“Jesus lost no time, but ran with shouts of words, acts, death, life, descent, ascent, all the time shouting for us to return to him.” Augustine

If you missed this past Sunday, want to listen to the sermon again, or couldn’t write the quotes down fast enough, we have links for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

The heart of TGKids is to help children understand that the Bible is all about Jesus! Below is the story, scripture, and main teaching points from the TGKids lesson, so that you can talk with your kids about what they learned.

Bible Story: God Parts the Red Sea

Scripture: Exodus 14

Bible Truth: There is no obstacle big enough to hinder the advance of God’s plan of salvation.

Where is Jesus: Exodus 14:8–9; Romans 9:17

In these passages, we learn something more about God’s purposes. Paul tells us in Romans that it was God who put Pharaoh on the throne of Egypt. He also tells us why. He did it to show his power through the life of Pharaoh so that God’s name would be proclaimed in all the earth.

The story of the parting of the Red Sea has been told millions of times, but often the most important part of the story is not mentioned. Because the Israelites escaped from Pharaoh’s army, one day a child named Jesus was born in Bethlehem to the nation of Israel. To this day, God’s name is proclaimed through the life of Pharaoh and the story of how God parted the Red Sea.

May Memory Verse: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6

If you want to check out the Quarterly Overview of the TGKids Curriculum, click the button below!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Family Worship

This Sunday, we will be enjoying worship with all of our Trinity Grace Family Members! There will be no TGKids and there will be pizza after the service.

If you would like some encouragement as you prepare for this Sunday of worship + wiggles, click the button below!

YMCA Food Drive

This Sunday, we will also be collecting non-perishable food items to help the YMCA provide meals for families in need.

You can drop off your donations on Sunday in the designated container located in the glass lobby of the YMCA.

Sunday Preview: May 22, 2022 at the YMCA

Summer Trips Offering

This Sunday, May 22, we will receive an offering that will directly support the folks going on these Summer Trips. We hope you will prayerfully consider giving.

Each Sunday, the pastors carefully put together an order of worship for us.

In an effort to help you prepare your heart & your family, we have included this Sunday’s order of worship below, as well as some important information. All the Scripture readings are noted. Links to videos of all the songs are included as well.

MEETING REMINDER

When: 10:30 am

Where: The YMCA - 205 Knoxville Ave

THE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Sunday, May 22, 2022

Doxology

Call to Worship: Revelation 19:6-7a

Behold Our God

Psalm 150 (Praise The Lord)

Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:4-7

My Soul Will Wait

Sermon: Ecclesiastes 1:12-2:11 // Is There Meaning In Life?

O Great God

Benediction

Summer Trips 2022: Why Mexico & S. Korea?

Churches are stronger together.

One of the joys we have in Sovereign Grace is partnering with like-minded churches around the world. In particular, Trinity Grace Church has connections in both Mexico & South Korea.

Today, we wanted to give you a little background on these partnerships & give you details on this year’s trip.

KOREA—June 6-14

We have a longstanding connection with Korea because Walt attended Pastors College with a man named Songwhan Kang. Songwhan had served as a pastor in Korea for some time. However, he planted Lord’s Grace Church in 2009 with Sovereign Grace, because he wanted to plant a church that was more carefully rooted in the gospel.

By God’s grace, after the past 10+ years, this church has grown into a solid, faithful, counter-cultural church. Over these past 10 years, Cornerstone Church & Pastor Walt have had the opportunity to go to Korea to build up their church & help them fulfill their mission to the lost.

This year’s trip will consist of two primary elements, a conference & an English camp. Songwhan & Pastor Walt will be leading a conference entitled Above All Earthly Fears—seeking to address the difficult days we are living in & the need to trust God. This conference will be open to all church members, as well as friends, neighbors, etc. During the sessions of the conference, the mission team will conduct an English camp for the youth of Lord’s Grace Church. It may be helpful to think of this as ESL-meets-VBS!

This year, in addition to 8 folks from Cornerstone, we are sending the following people:

Abi Jean Howard

Rachel Wilson

Tim Wilson

Walt Alexander

Please pray for them as they prepare & finish fundraising for the trip!

MEXICO—JUNE 18–25

In Mexico, we have a friendship with Dean Adamek, the director of an orphanage and school called Rancho 3M. Rancho 3M is situated on 21 acres about 45 minutes outside of Juarez in the town of Guadalupe. They’ve been rescuing, caring for, training, & discipling at-risk & orphaned children from the city of Juarez & the surrounding communities along the border of Mexico since the late 1960’s. Their goal is to send out mature believers with sound Biblical doctrine and a love for the local church to advance the Kingdom of God in Mexico and beyond.

When we asked about the ways we could most helpfully serve this summer, we were encouraged to focus on two things—projects & relationships.

We can’t wait.

This year, we are sending 17 people to serve Rancho 3M from June 18-25. The 17 individuals are:

Paul & Fran Citrullo

Joy, Brennan, & Knox Finch

Taylor Johnson

Buddy Luster

Sarah & Abigail Olsen

Charlie, Mandy, Seth, Jacob, & Ella Stewart

Janelle, Keljan, & Joelle Thomas

Please pray for them as they prepare & finish fundraising for the trip!

OFFERING THIS SUNDAY!

If you haven’t noticed, everything is a bit more expensive this year!

So this Sunday, we plan to receive an offering that will directly support the folks going on these trips. Any excess money will be donated directly to Lord’s Grace Church & Rancho 3M to offset additional costs in hosting us.

We hope you will prayerfully considering giving.

Thank you for praying these trips & supporting them!

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

Same As It Ever Was

May 15, 2022 || Ecclesiastes 1:1-11

Main point: You cannot get whatever you want out of life, but you can live everyday with purpose because of Christ.

1. Nothing you do will be remembered.

2. Nothing you do will be new.

3. Nothing you do will satisfy.

“The life of every human being consists mainly in this: we’ve been given a place to be, some things to do, a need for sustenance, and a people to share them with. God originates these gifts. God is present with these gifts.” Zack Eswine

If you missed this past Sunday, want to listen to the sermon again, or couldn’t write the quotes down fast enough, we have links for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

The heart of TGKids is to help children understand that the Bible is all about Jesus! Below is the story, scripture, and main teaching points from the TGKids lesson, so that you can talk with your kids about what they learned.

Bible Story: The Last Plague & the First Passover

Scripture: Exodus 11-13

Bible Truth: God’s people are saved by the blood of the Lamb.

Where is Jesus: 1 Corinthians 5:7–8

In this passage, as in the Passover, leaven represents sin. This is another way in which the story of Passover speaks to us of holiness and salvation. The Hebrews ate bread to live, so unleavened bread represented life free of sin.

But the most important aspect of the Passover was the blood on the door frame. In the entire Old Testament, this is the clearest foreshadowing (picture) of the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross. God promised the Hebrews that if the blood of a lamb was painted on the door frame, he would pass over that home and the firstborn son would not be killed. Similarly, Jesus is the Lamb who was slain for us. It is his blood that marks us as chosen by God and protected from God’s holy wrath against sin.

May Memory Verse: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6

If you want to check out the Quarterly Overview of the TGKids Curriculum, click the button below!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Summer Trip Offering

This Sunday, we will be collecting a dedicated offering to help cover the cost of those who are serving during these summer trips with Trinity Grace Church!

If you would like to support them, please consider giving this Sunday.

TGC Youth Meeting (Cancelled)

Due to graduations and recitals, we will not be meeting this month. Our next event will be a Lake Day on June 11. Stay tuned!

Advance 2022

We’ll be partnering with our friends from Cornerstone Church of Knoxville for the Advance Youth Retreat! Rising 6th graders-12th graders and parents are welcome to attend.

Register below before May 22 for the early bird discount!

Sunday Preview: May 15, 2022 at the YMCA

This Sunday!

Plan to linger and enjoy fellowship after the service this Sunday!

Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and delicious food for your family to enjoy!

Each Sunday, the pastors carefully put together an order of worship for us.

In an effort to help you prepare your heart & your family, we have included this Sunday’s order of worship below, as well as some important information. All the Scripture readings are noted. Links to videos of all the songs are included as well.

MEETING REMINDER

When: 10:30 am

Where: The YMCA - 205 Knoxville Ave

THE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Sunday, May 15, 2022

Doxology

Call to Worship: Psalm 90:1-2

All People That On Earth Do Dwell

He Is Our God

Scripture Reading: Joel 2:12-13

O Great God

Sermon: Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 // Same As It Ever Was

Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me

Receive Communion

It Is Well

Benediction

Pray for Emerging Nations in Sovereign Grace

Trinity Grace Church has the joy of being connected to Sovereign Grace Churches. At the heart of our connection is a theological commitment. We are bound together by the wonderful truths captured in our Statement of Faith. And these truths are not bound only to English speakers in the United States. Our network of churches is rapidly becoming a robust, global family as more churches are planted around the world with the same theological vision. Not only are new churches being planted, but new regions are emerging as churches are established in other nations and languages.

Recently, a group of pastors convened in order to think and pray together about the development of these new regions around the world. The following is an update about that leadership retreat from Mark Prater, Executive Director of Sovereign Grace Churches, and Pastor in Covenant Fellowship Church, Glen Mills, PA:

I continue to be amazed at the opportunities that God is giving our small family of churches to partner with churches and plant churches throughout the world. I also marvel at how God is providing like-minded, theologically-sound, gospel-centered, Jesus-loving leaders who are helping us steward these opportunities to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ in Latin America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Africa. 

In response to God’s gracious provision, Dave Taylor and I co-led a Global Leadership Development retreat in Southern California, April 5-8. Men traveled from different parts of the globe to participate in our retreat. Jeffery Jo came from Manilla, Philippines; Barnabas Shrestha from Nepal; Carlos Contreras from Juarez, Mexico; Ed O’Mara who will be moving to Italy in July to plant a Sovereign Grace church in that nation; Joselo Mercado who represents Sovereign Grace in Latin America; and of course Dave Taylor traveled from Sydney. Dyonah Thomas from Monrovia, Liberia couldn’t get a visa to get into the States, but he joined much of the retreat via Zoom. Likewise Michael Granger from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia was unable to attend this time around, but is also a part of this group. Each of these men are gifts from God because they are Christ-like men who have a passion for our shared gospel mission.

The purpose of our retreat was to invest into these men and in so doing fulfill the responsibility found in 2 Timothy 2:2, “and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” Jeff, Barnabas, Carlos, Ed, Joselo, and Dyonah are faithful men who all have a proven gift of leadership. Therefore, it was quite a privilege for Dave and me to come alongside them and equip them to help us lead in our mission to advance the gospel by planting and strengthening churches throughout the world.

We used our time to build relationally by hearing personal updates, enjoying conversation over good food, encouraging, and praying for one another. Dave did a masterful job leading each guy to share the challenges they were facing, and the dreams they have for gospel ministry in their nation. It was humbling to hear the unique challenges and persecution that some of our global leaders are facing. Jon Payne joined us to talk about the importance of building healthy eldership teams in every local church. And Eric Turbedsky took an afternoon to cast vision for church planting and to make our global leaders aware of the church planting resources that are available to them through Sovereign Grace. I took a session and talked about the things I’ve learned about leadership as the Executive Director, and Dave wrapped up our retreat by imparting hope to all of us from Isaiah 41:10.

After spending a week with these men, living in the same house, sharing meals together, seeing pictures of their families, and hearing how they are leading in their nation, I found myself thanking God for each of them. In a short time, these men became friends, and they are men that Dave and I trust. Do you know what is amazing? As God has given Sovereign Grace opportunities to partner with churches and plant churches throughout the world, He has also given us quality leaders who will help us steward these opportunities with wisdom and care. Our future in Sovereign Grace is bright because God has given us Jeff, Barnabas, Carlos, Ed, Joselo, Dyonah, Michael and Dave. Please pray for them asking God to give them wisdom, discernment, and grace to lead well for the purpose of making more people, from every tribe, tongue, and nation aware of the Good News of Jesus Christ.

PRAYER REQUESTS FOR MAY

1. Please pray for Jeff Purswell (SG Director of Theology & Pastor in Sovereign Grace Church, Louisville), as he travels to Germany this week to teach in the Pastors College in the Arche Church, that he helped to start. There will be 23 students attending from Germany, 2 from the Ukraine, plus three livestreaming from the Ukraine and 3 livestreaming from Russia. He’ll also be preaching on the Sunday morning in the Arche Church and participating in the graduation of 15 students from the PC. Please pray that Jeff will be a wonderful blessing to all involved and that God would knit us ever closer to this wonderful Church in Germany.

2. Please pray for Ed O’Mara, Larry McCall and their wives, as they head to Italy this month to run a marriage conference in Catania, focused on the gospel-centered marriage. Please pray that they’d serve the churches in Catania well and continue to build well with ‘Grazia e Verità’ in particular, as they continue to explore adoption into Sovereign Grace. In addition, please pray for Ed & Robin as they seek to find appropriate and affordable housing in a good location ahead of their relocation to Italy in the fall of 2022, with a view to Sovereign Grace Churches Italia.

3. Please pray for David Del Castillo (Pastor in Iglesia Gracia Soberana, Santa Cruz) as he participates and helps to run two Simeon Trust Conferences in Bolivia – 6-7th May (Santa Cruz) and 12-14th May (La Paz). Please pray for much grace and wisdom for him as he takes on this new endevour.

4. Please pray for Dyonah Thomas (Lead Pastor of Gracelife Church, in Monrovia, Liberia) as he prepares for the launch of the ‘Sovereign Grace West Africa Pastors & Planters Academy’, in June. There will be 10 students attending with their families, on a full-time basis, coming from four different countries - Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Ivory Coast. We’re so excited to see this coming together, as we plan for several SG West Africa Church Plants in 2023-25.

5. Please continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Ukraine, and in particular those that are connected to us through Jeff Purswell and the Arche Church in Hamburg, Germany. In their own words, “Please pray that the Lord will give His peace in the hearts of believers and remove all fear. For the Gospel of Jesus to be a stronghold and a strong foundation in rebellious circumstances. For believers to support one another and keep their eyes on Christ. And for Christians to witness the Gospel to unbelievers and help them find peace in Jesus.” May they know His nearness and peace at this time, even in their darkest hour.

STAY CONNECTED

It’s amazing to see what God is doing through Sovereign Grace around the world. We, in Athens, TN are a part of God’s global story. What a privilege to partner with other believers for mission in the name of our savior, Jesus Christ!

If you would like to get the monthly Emerging Nations newsletter, click the button below and subscribe!

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

Why We Need Ecclesiastes

May 8, 2022 || Ecclesiastes 1:1-2

Main point: Life is brief and broken, but in the fear of God life is still worth living.

1. Life is brief.

2. Life is broken.

3. Life is beautiful.

“Ecclesiastes is one of the Old Testament’s five wisdom books. It has been said that the Psalms teach us how to worship; Proverbs, how to behave; Job, how to suffer; Song of Solomon, how to love; and Ecclesiastes, how to live.” J.I. Packer

If you missed this past Sunday, want to listen to the sermon again, or couldn’t write the quotes down fast enough, we have links for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

The heart of TGKids is to help children understand that the Bible is all about Jesus! Below is the story, scripture, and main teaching points from the TGKids lesson, so that you can talk with your kids about what they learned.

Bible Story: God Sends Plagues Against Egypt

Scripture: Exodus 7:14 - 11:10

Bible Truth: The word of the Lord is sure.

Where is Jesus: Hebrews 3:4–6

Notice how these verses compare Moses to Jesus. Once again we see that the life of Moses points to the life of Jesus. Moses led his people and taught them. As we will see later, he also delivered them from bondage. In this way, Moses’ life illustrates and proclaims the coming Savior. Just as Moses was a faithful deliverer, so Christ is a faithful deliverer and redeemer.

May Memory Verse: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6

If you want to check out the Quarterly Overview of the TGKids Curriculum, click the button below!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

3:14 Dinner Club

WHO: Anyone who identifies as “Empty Nesters”

WHAT:  International Night

WHERE: The Citrullo’s Home,1537 County Rd 130

WHEN: May 14th at 6:00 PM

For more information, click the button below!

Advance 2022

We’ll be partnering with our friends from Cornerstone Church of Knoxville for the Advance Youth Retreat! Rising 6th graders-12th graders and parents are welcome to attend.

Register below before May 22 for the early bird discount!

Sunday Preview: May 8, 2022 at the YMCA

Each Sunday, the pastors carefully put together an order of worship for us.

In an effort to help you prepare your heart & your family, we have included this Sunday’s order of worship below, as well as some important information. All the Scripture readings are noted. Links to videos of all the songs are included as well.

MEETING REMINDER

When: 10:30 am

Where: The YMCA - 205 Knoxville Ave

THE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Sunday, May 8, 2022

Doxology

Call to Worship: Deuteronomy 32:1-4

Our Great God

How Great (Psalm 145)

Scripture Reading: Psalm 113:4-9

O Lord My Rock And My Redeemer

All I Have Is Christ

Sermon: Ecclesiastes 1:1-2 // Why We Need Ecclesiastes

O Great God

Benediction

How Can We Respond to The SCOTUS Leak?

BACKGROUND

What is the Supreme Court?

The Supreme Court is the highest tribunal in the Nation for all cases and controversies arising under the Constitution or the laws of the United States. As the final arbiter of the law, the Court is charged with ensuring the American people the promise of equal justice under law and, thereby, also functions as guardian and interpreter of the Constitution. Nine Justices make up the current Supreme Court: one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. In deciding a case, the justices hold a preliminary vote shortly after hearing oral arguments. A member of the majority is then assigned to write a draft of the Court’s opinion.

What information was leaked?

A news organization has reported that they have received a copy of an initial draft majority opinion written by Justice Samuel Alito that has been circulated inside the Supreme Court. The draft opinion was written for the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, one of the most important pro-life case in decades. In arguing the case, Justice Alito’s draft of the majority opinion delivers a strong rebuke of Roe v. Wade.

What is Roe v. Wade?

In 1970, “Jane Roe” (Norma McCorvey) filed a lawsuit against Henry Wade, her local district attorney, to challenge a Texas law that prohibited abortion except to save the life of the mother. In summary, the Supreme Court delivered a highly controversial verdict based on the 14th amendment which says no state shall deprive any “person” of “liberty.” First, the Justices interpreted “liberty” to include a “right to privacy” and held that abortion is part of the right to privacy. Second, the Court held that the “unborn” are not included with other “persons” protected by the Constitution. So, a woman’s right to privacy was interpreted to include her right to abortion and the unborn were not considered living people with rights. The ruling on Roe v. Wade was the landmark decision that made abortion legal in all 50 states.

What are the implications of the leak?

The draft of the Court’s opinion points to a majority stance AGAINST the interpretation granted in Roe v. Wade. In other words, the majority of justices are favoring an interpretation that would oppose current abortion legislation. To be clear, the leaked draft does not mean the Court has decided to overrule Roe. The opinion of the Court on the case will not be finalized until the ruling is made public - likely before the end of June. So, it is significant to note that no draft decision in the modern history of the Court has been disclosed publicly while a case was still pending. The leak and circulation of this document could be a pawn in the political game to apply pressure to the Justices before a final decision is made.

If the verdict goes in the direction of the current draft and the Court overturns Roe, legalized abortion may soon become an issue that changes based on who controls the state legislature. Justice Alito says in the draft:

“In some States, voters may believe that the abortion right should be more [sic] even more extensive than the right Casey and Roe recognized. Voters in other States may wish to impose tight restrictions based on their belief that abortion destroys an ‘unborn human being.’”

In other words, legislation on abortion regulations could be turned over to individual States and be left to elected representatives.

According to the Tennessean:

Tennessee is one of nearly two dozen states certain to ban abortion in the event of Roe being overturned. Voters amended Tennessee's state constitution in 2014 to specifically remove access to abortion as a fundamental right in the state. The state in 2019 also passed a "trigger law" that would institute a de facto abortion ban should the Supreme Court overturn its Roe decision. If the law is activated, the Attorney General would notify the Tennessee Code Commission. Then, within 30 days of that notice, the state would officially have an abortion ban in place. The measure would make it a felony for a doctor to perform an abortion…

What should we do?

Pray

This news gives us much to pray for. It’s clear from scripture that life is precious - from womb to tomb - based on the biblical belief that humans are created in the image of God. If Roe is overturned, Tennessee will see many of these precious lives saved from the tyranny of the abortion industry. As Christians, we certainly want to pursue and celebrate life. At the same time, we must be willing to help women and children in crisis. Therefore, we should pray that:

• The Justices overturn Roe v. Wade

• Countless lives will be saved from abortion

• Christians engage women in crisis pregnancies

• Church communities will support foster care and adoption

Serve

If the State of Tennessee is given the opportunity to ban abortion, there will be more women locally looking for help in the context of crisis pregnancies. A key resource that is ready to serve this demographic is Full Circle Medical Center for Women. Here are a number of ways you can be involved:

Here are some ways to get involved:

• Partner financially

• Volunteer at events or help serve clients 

• Attend our Fall Fundraising Event, a live and silent auction on September 15th

CONCLUSION

Let’s keep a prayerful eye on the progression of this ruling. The implications could be massive - not only at a national level - but locally too! Let’s look for opportunities to pray for and serve the precious lives that God has created. May we be a church characterized by prayer and action.

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

Planted in The Word of God

May 1, 2022 || Psalm 1

Main point: Our soul prospers when planted by the river of God’s Word. 

1. Our soul suffers when planted in worldly counsel.

2. Meditation plants us by God’s river.

3. The fruit of meditation.

“I saw that the most important thing I had to do was to give myself to the reading of the word of God, and to meditation on it, that thus my heart might be comforted, encouraged, warned, reproved, instructed; and that thus, by means of the word of God, whilst meditating on it, my heart might be brought into communion with the Lord.” George Muller

If you missed this past Sunday, want to listen to the sermon again, or couldn’t write the quotes down fast enough, we have links for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

The heart of TGKids is to help children understand that the Bible is all about Jesus! Below is the story, scripture, and main teaching points from the TGKids lesson, so that you can talk with your kids about what they learned.

Bible Story: Moses Confronts Pharaoh

Scripture: Exodus 5:1 - 7:13

Bible Truth: God patiently saves despite unbelief.

Where is Jesus: Ezekiel 36:26

Everything was perfect when God made the world, then sin ruined everything. But God would send a rescuer to fix the problem- his name is JESUS!

Listen to what one of God’s prophets said He would do through Jesus- the Messiah who would rescue us. 

“And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel 36:26

When Jesus came to earth and called people to follow him, this prophecy came true. He died and rose again to take away his followers’ sins and hard hearts, and instead he gives them a new heart that listens to God’s voice!

May Memory Verse: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Philippians 4:6

If you want to check out the Quarterly Overview of the TGKids Curriculum, click the button below!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Advance 2022

Advance Youth Retreat is coming up this July! Our youth and parents look forward to this event each year.

Click the link below for more details and to register!

Sunday Preview: May 1, 2022 at the YMCA

This Sunday!

May 1, 2022 || 9:15 am || YMCA

Join Mike Plewniak at 9:15 am to examine what God says about our technology use.

Each Sunday, the pastors carefully put together an order of worship for us.

In an effort to help you prepare your heart & your family, we have included this Sunday’s order of worship below, as well as some important information. All the Scripture readings are noted. Links to videos of all the songs are included as well.

MEETING REMINDER

When: 10:30 am

Where: The YMCA - 205 Knoxville Ave

THE ORDER OF WORSHIP

Sunday, May 1, 2022

Doxology

Call to Worship: Psalm 119:147-149

How Firm A Foundation

How Great (Psalm 145)

Scripture Reading: 2 Peter 1:3-4

Is He Worthy

Speak O Lord

Sermon: Psalm 1 || Mike Plewniak

Come Behold The Wondrous Mystery

Benediction

Why I'm Gonna Miss the Gospel of Mark!

Congratulations!

You listened to 50 messages—that’s right, five-zero—from the Gospel of Mark! Well done!

(At least the last twenty or so were in more comfortable chairs!)

But.

Now that our series on the Gospel of Mark is over, I must admit that I’m going to miss it terribly. Below are several reasons why.

THE VIVID DISPLAYS OF JESUS’ POWER

Like any good preacher, Mark tells us what he’s gonna tell us before he tells us: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (1:1).

But after that, Mark doesn’t tell us that Jesus is the Son of God, Mark shows us.

The gospel of Mark is packed with scene after scene showing us the glory & the greatness of Jesus. From healing of the man with the withered hand to raising Jairus’ daughter from the dead, from calming the waves to multiplying a few loaves to feed thousands, scene after scene unveils who Jesus is.

Jesus is the living God. Jesus is the all-powerful Lord. Jesus is the Son of God.

And each scene is precious.

Writing about the gospels, J.C. Ryle has famously said,

“It is well to be acquainted with all the doctrines and principles of Christianity. It is better to be acquainted with Christ himself. Now the Gospels were written to make us acquainted with Christ. Ought not the sheep to be familiar with the Shepherd? Ought not the patient to be familiar with the Physician? Ought not the bride to be familiar with the Bridegroom? Ought not the sinner to be familiar with the Savior? Beyond doubt it ought be so. Surely we cannot know this Christ too well! Surely there is not a work, nor a deed, nor a day, nor a step, nor a thought in the record of His life, which ought not to be precious to us.” J.C. Ryle 

What a privilege it has been to slowly study precious scene after precious scene from our Savior’s life!

THE CAREFUL DESCRIPTION OF JESUS’ SUFFERING

Unlike many movies, books, & even sermons describing the suffering of Jesus, the gospel of Mark is incredibly careful.

Mark devotes virtually no time to discussing the physical pain of Jesus’ suffering.

But Mark carefully describes how the suffering of Jesus fulfills the will of God (8:31, 9:31, 10:33-34). Every aspect of the suffering of Jesus was planned before the foundation of the world & worked exactly as Jesus taught ahead of time.

Mark carefully describes how the suffering of Jesus satisfies the wrath of God. The suffering of Jesus is the cup he knew he would drink (10:39), the baptism he knew he would endure (10:39), the agony he anticipated (14:32-42). Each of these metaphors, along with his scream from the cross (15:34), clearly teach us that Jesus is satisfying the wrath of God.

It is not physical pain or shame that Jesus feared & endured, it is the wrath of God stored up for sinners. Stunningly, as author Peter Bolt summarized, “The conclusion must be that, in the cross of Christ, God entered into his own wrath.”

Mark carefully describes how the suffering of Jesus was substitutionary. The death of Jesus was a place-taking death. The death is Jesus is in exchange for ours. Jesus was delivered up—one of Mark’s favorite words!—in our place & we were forgiven & freed in return.

May we never see the story of Barabbas the same way again!

Jesus followed through with what he promised. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (10:45).

Summing up this theme of substitution, John Stott says:

“The essence of sin is man substituting himself for God, while the essence of salvation is God substituting himself for man. Man asserts himself against God and puts himself where only God deserves to be; God sacrifices himself for man and puts himself where only man deserves to be.” John Stott

THE CLEAR CALL TO FOLLOW JESUS

Throughout the gospel of Mark, Jesus does not call those who follow him to comfort & convenience. Jesus calls all who follow him to suffer & die.

Following Jesus is a call to leave everything else behind. Like the disciples who left their fishing nets & all their family had ever done, following Jesus means we must leave anything that stands in the way of him behind.

Following Jesus is a call to serve. Even the Son of Man came to serve. How much more should we be ready to serve wherever & whenever?

“The symbol of an authentically Christian leadership is not the purple robe of an emperor, but the coarse apron of a slave; not a throne of ivory and gold, but a basin of water for the washing of feet.” John Stott

Following Jesus is a call to die. “For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it” (8:35).

As we noted at the outset of our series on the Gospel of Mark, many of first readers of the Gospel of Mark were severely persecuted just a few years later in Rome. Some were fed to lions. Some were lit on fire. But, they were strengthened as they read of the Suffering Servant & the promise that “the one who endures to the end will be saved.”

How many more of the suffering body of Christ have been strengthened by this gospel? Only in eternity will we know.

We too should be strengthened by the gospel of Mark—regardless of whether joy or persecution, prosperity or adversity, peace or turmoil lie ahead.

But let us not forget following Jesus is also a promise of great reward.

Following Christ is not loss, it is gain! It is not death, it is life! It is not punishment, it is reward!

As Jesus promised:

“Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Mark 10:29-31

Conclusion

We only have 65 more books to go!

If you missed a message along the way or want to re-listen, our whole series is posted on our sermons page & wherever you go to listen to podcasts.

Sunday Recap + Weekly Announcements

SERMON RECAP

Why We Believe The Bible

April 24, 2022 || 2 Peter 1:16-21

Main point: Treasure the inspired Word of God.

1. Revelation

2. Inspiration

3. Scripture

“The word of God is more than enough for the people of God to live their lives to the glory of God.” Kevin DeYoung

If you missed this past Sunday, want to listen to the sermon again, or couldn’t write the quotes down fast enough, we have links for you below.

TGKIDS RECAP

TGKids

The heart of TGKids is to help children understand that the Bible is all about Jesus! Below is the story, scripture, and main teaching points from the TGKids lesson, so that you can talk with your kids about what they learned.

Bible Story: God Calls Moses

Scripture: Exodus 2:11—4:17

Bible Truth: God called his servant Moses to deliver his people from bondage.

Where is Jesus: Hebrews 11:23–26

Verse 26 tells us two things. First, Moses believed that God would send the world a Savior through the Israelites. This Savior was Jesus, who was born more than 1,300 years later. Also, the verse tells us that Moses wanted to be part of God’s plan of salvation more than he wanted all the pleasures and riches he could have in Pharaoh’s household.

God gave grace to Moses to see these things. So, to Moses, all the earthly treasures of Egypt were meaningless.

April Memory Verse: "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in
the land that the LORD your God is giving you." Exodus 20:12

If you want to check out the Quarterly Overview of the TGKids Curriculum, click the button below!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Does God Care How I Use My Phone?

May 1, 2022 || 9:15 am || YMCA

Join Mike Plewniak at 9:15 am to examine what God says about our technology use.

Upcoming Youth Events

Saturday, May 14 || Monthly Youth Meeting

Saturday, June 11th || Lake Day || Boating, Tubing, Food, and Fun

Saturday, July 9th || Wild River Retreat || Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Waterslide, Hangout

Advance 2022

Advance Youth Retreat is coming up this July! Our youth and parents look forward to this event each year.

Click the link below for more details and to register!