September 10th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Remember, Restore, Renew
“If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
[Reading above - Matthew 18:15-20]
This passage, which reinforces the parable of the shepherd who seeks the lost sheep that comes immediately before, affirms the grace of God which values each and every one, desiring to bring all to reconciliation. Jesus offers some practical steps to bring restoration when an offense leads to division and estrangement.
Questions for Reflection:
Remember a time when an offense led to separation and estrangement. How might that situation had a different outcome if you had followed the steps for reconciliation set forth in this passage?
Read Mathew 8:13 and 9:9, to know how Jesus interacted with gentiles and tax collectors. How do these interactions inform Jesus’ comment in verse 17 of today’s passage?
How might the promised presence of Christ in community at the conclusion of the passage provide additional resolve to seek reconciliation?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
The next time a conflict arises with another disciple in our community of faith follow the steps for reconciliation set forth by Jesus. Let one of your pastors guide the process and make sure you have the compassion and determination of the shepherd who is intent on finding the lost sheep.
A Practice to Deepening Discipleship
Incorporate a faith journal in your spiritual practice. Use the journal as a way to:
jot down needs and blessings with words or drawings or pictures, respond to the questions for reflection in the sermon notes, make notes about the weekly scripture lessons and sermons, create a to-do list of discipleship actions, list questions you want to explore, write prayers, stories, poems, or letters, be creative!
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com