Preparing for the Lord's Day

EXILES IN A FOREIGN LAND

1 Peter Sermon Series

Over the last few weeks we have seen the importance of holiness in the life of a Christian. As those who have been adopted into the family of God through the new birth, we are called to be holy as our heavenly Father is holy (1 Peter 1:16). Last week we saw that the hope we have to become holy is not in our efforts toward this goal, but rather our hope is in the shed blood of Jesus Christ alone (1 Peter 1:18-19). This week we will see what the true mark of holiness is in the life of a believer and how Christians are to measure their personal growth in holiness. We will come to see that the true mark of holiness in the life of a believer is love. In particular, Peter says that holiness is marked by an increasing love for God’s people (1 Peter 1:22). To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon 1 Peter 1:22-25, Deuteronomy 7:7-8, Matthew 22:37-40, John 13:34, 1 John 3:14, 4:7-12, 5:2, and Westminster Confession of Faith 26.1. 

As we gather to worship our loving Father this Lord’s day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “All Creatures of Our God and King,” the Acclamation of Praise “Oh How I Love Jesus,” and the Hymn of Response “I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, to receive it in faith, to love and treasure it in our hearts, and to practice it in our lives that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him!

If you’re going to be out of town this Sunday, let me encourage you to listen to the sermon online (usually posted by Monday afternoon) or you can download the REPC podcast, which will be delivered to your mobile device. 

A LITURGICAL NOTE

As you will notice this Sunday, the paraments have change to purple, indicating the beginning of the season of Lent. Lent is comprised of the forty days leading up to Easter Sunday. It is a time in which Christians may spiritually prepare themselves for the coming of the cross and the celebration of the resurrection. Historically, this time has been marked by personal sacrifice to emulate the Lord’s choice to suffer on behalf of His church. Through self-denial, we do not earn credit from God. However, we do come to know the fellowship of Christ more intimately as we share in His path (Philippians 3:10). Allow me to encourage you to download the Lent Bible Reading Plan from our new app and take time to read this Lent Application article written by Pastor Mike.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME

Don’t forget to turn your clocks forward an hour tomorrow night!

THE NEW RIVERMONT EPC APP

The Rivermont EPC app is here! You can now download the app for your phone or tablet. It is available for both Apple and Android and features a number of tools (including Pastor Mike’s Lent Bible Reading Plan mentioned above) to keep you informed and connected. When you download the app, make sure to “allow notifications” so we can send out important communication (like weather closings) directly to your app.

PRESCHOOL NIGHT AT MI PATRON

The first Preschool fundraiser for the spring is this coming Tuesday, March 12! It is scheduled at Mi Patron anytime from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. Click here for details on other spring events. 

MISSIONS LUNCH WITH TESSA SYDNOR

Join us next Sunday, March 17 at 12:30 pm for a missions lunch at Milano’s Restaurant with Tessa Sydnor. Be sure to email Pastor Brett to RSVP by Friday, March 15.

Bulletin

• Bulletin for Sunday 3/10/19

Sermon Discussion

• Sermon Discussion for Sunday 3/10/19 - coming soon