Celebrating Faith, Community, and New Beginnings

Devotional

Day 1: The Power of Prayer

Prayer is a powerful tool that Jesus encourages us to use in Matthew 7:7-11. He teaches us to ask, seek, and knock, promising that our good Father in heaven will provide for our needs. This assurance encourages us to bring our requests to God with faith, knowing that He hears and answers our prayers. Prayer is not just a ritual but a dynamic interaction with God that can move mountains and bring healing and help to His people. When we pray, we align ourselves with God's will and open the door for His power to work in our lives. [21:18]

Matthew 7:7-11 (ESV): "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!"

Reflection: Think of a specific need or concern in your life right now. How can you bring this to God in prayer today, trusting in His goodness and provision?

Day 2: The Importance of Community

Welcoming new members into the church highlights the significance of community in our spiritual journey. Each person brings unique gifts and talents that strengthen the body of Christ. Together, we can support one another through high and low times, embodying the slogan "we're better together." Community is not just about being together physically but about sharing life, encouraging one another, and growing together in faith. It is through community that we experience the fullness of God's love and grace, as we serve and are served by others. [43:36]

1 Corinthians 12:12-14 (ESV): "For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. For the body does not consist of one member but of many."

Reflection: Reflect on your role within your church community. How can you use your unique gifts to support and strengthen the body of Christ this week?

Day 3: Significance of Holy Communion

Communion is a sacred act that commemorates Christ's death, signifies the benefits of the new covenant, and identifies us with Christ and each other. It is a time to examine ourselves, confess our sins, and remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us. This act of remembrance brings spiritual nourishment and unity among believers. When we partake in Communion, we are reminded of the depth of God's love and the price of our redemption. It is a moment to reflect on our relationship with God and with others, ensuring that we are living in a manner worthy of the Gospel. [55:00]

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (ESV): "For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, 'This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.' In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.' For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes."

Reflection: Before your next Communion, take time to examine your heart. Is there any sin you need to confess or any relationship you need to mend?

Day 4: Personal Reflection and Confession

Before partaking in Communion, it is essential to examine our hearts and confess any sins. This self-reflection ensures that we approach the Lord's table in a worthy manner, avoiding judgment and receiving the full benefits of Christ's sacrifice. It is an opportunity for a fresh start and renewed commitment to God. By confessing our sins and seeking God's forgiveness, we open ourselves to His grace and healing. This practice of self-examination and confession helps us to live in a state of continual repentance and growth in our spiritual journey. [56:37]

Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV): "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!"

Reflection: Spend a few moments in quiet reflection. Ask God to reveal any areas of your life that need His forgiveness and healing. How can you make a fresh start today?

Day 5: Celebration of Baptism

Baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ and a symbol of new beginnings. Each testimony shared during the baptism service is a powerful reminder of God's redemptive work in our lives. Baptism signifies dying to our old selves and rising to new life in Christ, marking a significant step in our spiritual journey. It is a celebration of God's grace and a commitment to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. Through baptism, we identify with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, proclaiming our faith and commitment to live as His disciples. [20:26]

Romans 6:3-4 (ESV): "Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."

Reflection: Reflect on your own baptism or the meaning of baptism if you have not yet been baptized. How does this public declaration of faith inspire you to live out your commitment to Christ daily?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

This morning, we gathered to celebrate the goodness of God and to engage in prayer, reflecting on the transformative power of faith and community. We began by acknowledging the incredible work God is doing in our church, especially through the youth camp, and the lives that are being changed. We were reminded of the importance of prayer, as Jesus taught in Matthew 7:7-11, encouraging us to ask, seek, and knock, trusting that our good Father in heaven will provide for our needs.

We opened the altar for those with prayer needs, emphasizing that God is a good Father who hears and answers our prayers. We prayed collectively, believing in God's power to move mountains and bring healing and help to His people. We also celebrated new members joining our church, recognizing the importance of community and the diverse gifts each person brings to the body of Christ.

We then transitioned to a time of Holy Communion, reflecting on its significance. Communion is a time to remember Christ's sacrificial death, to signify and apply the benefits of the new covenant, and to identify ourselves with Christ and each other. We read from 1 Corinthians 11:23-34, emphasizing the importance of examining ourselves before partaking in the elements to avoid judgment and to ensure we are partaking in a worthy manner.

Finally, we celebrated baptisms, witnessing individuals publicly declare their faith in Jesus Christ. Each testimony was a powerful reminder of God's redemptive work in our lives. We concluded with a prayer of blessing over the new members and those who were baptized, thanking God for the new beginnings and the unity we share as a church family.

###

Key Takeaways

1. 11 to ask, seek, and knock, promising that our good Father in heaven will provide for our needs. This encourages us to bring our requests to God with faith, knowing that He hears and answers our prayers. Prayer is a powerful tool that moves mountains and brings healing and help to His people. [21:18]
2. The Importance of Community: Welcoming new members into the church highlights the significance of community in our spiritual journey. Each person brings unique gifts and talents that strengthen the body of Christ. Together, we can support one another through high and low times, embodying the slogan "we're better together."

3. Significance of Holy Communion: Communion is a sacred act that commemorates Christ's death, signifies the benefits of the new covenant, and identifies us with Christ and each other. It is a time to examine ourselves, confess our sins, and remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us. This act of remembrance brings spiritual nourishment and unity among believers.

4. Personal Reflection and Confession: Before partaking in Communion, it is essential to examine our hearts and confess any sins. This self-reflection ensures that we approach the Lord's table in a worthy manner, avoiding judgment and receiving the full benefits of Christ's sacrifice. It is an opportunity for a fresh start and renewed commitment to God.

5. Celebration of Baptism: Baptism is a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ and a symbol of new beginnings. Each testimony shared during the baptism service was a powerful reminder of God's redemptive work in our lives. Baptism signifies dying to our old selves and rising to new life in Christ, marking a significant step in our spiritual journey.

### [21:18]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[20:26] - God's Goodness and Youth Camp
[21:18] - The Power of Prayer
[22:12] - Opening the Altar for Prayer
[23:12] - Collective Prayer and Faith
[24:24] - God's Sovereignty and Healing
[25:39] - Holy Spirit's Presence
[26:21] - Righteousness Through Christ
[27:20] - Online Viewers and Anointing
[28:05] - New Beginnings and Faith
[28:52] - Praise and Worship
[40:15] - Jeremiah 29:11 and God's Plans
[40:44] - Prayer of Thanksgiving
[41:40] - Special Day and New Members
[42:29] - Welcoming New Members
[43:36] - Importance of Community
[44:47] - Testimonies of New Members
[45:31] - Baptism Testimonies
[50:12] - Prayer of Blessing for New Members
[51:36] - Holy Communion Introduction
[52:32] - Significance of Communion
[55:00] - 1 Corinthians 11:23-34 Reading
[55:48] - Observations on Holy Communion
[57:30] - Personal Reflection and Confession
[58:11] - Tangible Elements of Communion
[59:34] - Spiritual Nourishment
[60:13] - Personal Remembrance
[60:58] - Proclaiming the Lord's Death
[62:16] - Warning Against Unworthy Manner
[62:57] - New Beginnings in Christ
[63:32] - Invitation to the Table
[64:40] - Victory Through Christ
[65:09] - Examining Ourselves
[66:17] - Divine Discipline
[67:52] - Preservation Through Communion
[68:19] - Celebrating God's Goodness
[70:11] - Reflective Prayer
[72:19] - Invitation to Surrender
[74:21] - Prayer of Forgiveness
[75:45] - Partaking of the Bread
[77:44] - Partaking of the Cup
[79:28] - New Beginnings Through Communion
[80:01] - Baptismal Candidates
[82:27] - Baptism Testimonies
[111:13] - Closing Prayer and Announcements

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What does Jesus promise in Matthew 7:7-11 about asking, seeking, and knocking? How does He compare earthly fathers to our Father in heaven? ([21:18])
According to 1 Corinthians 11:23-34, what are the key elements and actions involved in the Lord's Supper? ([55:00])
What does Paul warn against when partaking in the Lord's Supper in an unworthy manner? What are the consequences mentioned? ([56:37])
How did the church service emphasize the importance of community and welcoming new members? ([43:36])

Interpretation Questions

How does the promise in Matthew 7:7-11 encourage believers to approach God in prayer? What does this say about God's character? ([21:18])
Why is self-examination important before partaking in Communion according to 1 Corinthians 11:23-34? How does this practice benefit the believer? ([56:37])
In what ways does the act of Communion serve to unite believers with Christ and with each other? ([55:00])
How does the celebration of new members and baptisms reflect the church's understanding of community and spiritual growth? ([43:36])

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you brought a need to God in prayer. How did you see His provision or guidance in that situation? How does Matthew 7:7-11 encourage you to continue seeking God in prayer? ([21:18])
Before taking Communion, what steps can you take to examine your heart and confess any sins? How can this practice deepen your relationship with God? ([56:37])
How can you contribute to the sense of community within your church? What unique gifts or talents can you offer to support and strengthen the body of Christ? ([43:36])
Think about the significance of Communion in your own spiritual journey. How does remembering Christ's sacrifice impact your daily life and decisions? ([55:00])
Baptism is a public declaration of faith. If you have been baptized, how did it affect your spiritual walk? If you haven't, what steps can you take to prepare for this important milestone? ([20:26])
How can you support new members in your church, helping them feel welcomed and integrated into the community? What practical steps can you take this week? ([43:36])
Reflect on the testimonies shared during the baptism service. How do these stories of transformation inspire you in your own faith journey? ([20:26])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "I'll just tell you that your Father in heaven, he's a good, good God. He's a good, good Father. And he will hear your prayer and he will answer your prayer this morning. So this altar is open. If you have needs this morning, I'd encourage... I'd encourage you to just step out from where you are. Bring those needs to this altar and expect God to do exceedingly and abundantly more than you could ever think or imagine." [22:12] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Aren't you glad you can know the author of your story? Hallelujah. Jeremiah 29 11 says, listen, he knows the plans that he has for each and every one of us. Amen. He's the author of your story today. He's the one that writes your name down in glory. Hallelujah. He's the one that knows your yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Amen. Hallelujah. And he's the one that's not finished with you. Amen. Hallelujah. Tell your neighbor, God's still working on me. God's still working on me. Amen. Amen." [40:15] (351 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "So, Father, we pray this prayer. Forgive us of our trespasses. Thank you that you are faithful and true to do that. And, Lord, as we surrender our life to you this day, and we ask for forgiveness, we're grateful to know that all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. So, Lord, the saving work that you're doing right now throughout this congregation, for those who raised their hands, and even for those that are contemplating in their hearts right now, Lord, I thank you that you're doing a work in their life right now. Old things are passing away, and all things are becoming new." [01:14:21] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "So today as we partake of the bread and the body and the juice, the blood, here's what it does. It's a preserver. There's preservation in doing this because it qualifies and calls us to remember the goodness of the Lord in our life. Is there anybody that would agree with me that God's been good to you? Amen. Is there anybody that would agree with me he's been better to you than you've been to him? Amen. Amen. Anybody in the house that would declare you love him?" [01:07:52] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "So, Father, we thank you for an amazing day. We've seen an amazing time of worship through our kids today. Thank you, thank you for what you're doing through Miss Chelsea and the Children's Department. Lord, we see the freedom in their life and the joy that they have. Thank you for the new members that have connected with the South Henderson Pentecostal Holiness Church. Thank you for the word of the living God as we partake in communion together here today and realize that it brings a time of remembrance and new beginnings in our life." [01:52:13] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "So, Lord, today we simply call upon the name that's above every name. We thank you that we have the privilege and the opportunity to come into the very throne room of grace today to receive healing, to receive help, to receive every good and perfect gift that comes from above. So, Lord, as we step in faith today out of our seats and into the aisle way, we believe that you're already moving on our behalf. You are a good Father. We're the sheep of your pasture. And you are the good shepherd. So, today, Father, I thank you that you're already, even before we ask, know what our need is. But, Lord, you beckon us to come." [23:12] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "So, Lord, we stand on every promise that you have made. And we declare that you are God. And because you are God, you are eternal. You are sovereign in all of your ways. So, Lord, we thank you. And we bless you. And we magnify your holy name. Worthy is the glory of God. You are the great Lamb of God. Slain before the foundation of the world. And because you were. Because of the blood you shed on the cross of Calvary. Because of the stripes upon your back. You have made a declaration over your people that we shall be healed." [24:24] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "So, today, it's really good that we get to see each and every one of the candidates speak to us through the video. Guys, can y'all do me a favor? I forgot about the video. Can y'all swing around this way? There you go. So guys, I don't know how you got them logged in back there. I think y'all can kind of work with me. But let's do Jennifer first. Jennifer, Miranda, she's gonna speak to us about baptism this morning. Guys, if you can pull Jennifer's up." [22:51] (110 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "So, Father, we thank you for the opportunity to remember and to reflect of the wonderful work of redemption and restoration that you're doing in your people. Lord, thank you that as we look intently into the mirror of our life, into the word of the living God, Lord, if there be any hidden iniquity inside of us today, I pray that you would reveal that to us. That you would give us the opportunity, your grace and your mercy, the opportunity to resolve any unresolved issues in our life. Forgiveness that we receive from you and forgiveness that we give to others today, oh God, so important." [01:10:11] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "So, Father, we pray this prayer. Forgive us of our trespasses. Thank you that you are faithful and true to do that. And, Lord, as we surrender our life to you this day, and we ask for forgiveness, we're grateful to know that all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. So, Lord, the saving work that you're doing right now throughout this congregation, for those who raised their hands, and even for those that are contemplating in their hearts right now, Lord, I thank you that you're doing a work in their life right now. Old things are passing away, and all things are becoming new." [01:14:21] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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