Preparing for the Lord's Day
Gospel Renewal
In Mark chapter 4, Jesus speaks of the kingdom of God as a mustard seed. It is small and easy to overlook. Who would believe the massive effects it can have once it is planted, takes root and grows? Nevertheless, once the seed is planted, it begins a process of life and increase that has major effects on the field in which it is planted. In the opening verses of Colossians, Paul speaks of the gospel message in the same manner. It is proclaimed, believed, and once it takes root, it grows and bears fruit. The gospel is about bringing forth life.
As we continue our study of our church’s mission, vision, and value statements, we come to the “What” of our mission. What is it that we are to be about? As you remember from last week, the “Why” of our mission is the glory of God and the good of His people. The “What” is to awaken Gospel renewal. But what exactly is Gospel renewal? And how is it awakened? These are the questions that we will address in Sunday’s message as we study the opening verses in Paul’s letter to the Colossians. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and meditate on Colossians 1:3-8,Isaiah 55:10-11, John 15:4-5, Romans 1:16-17, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 2:8-10, Philippians 1:6, Titus 3:4-7, and Rivermont’s Mission, Vision, and Value statements.
As we gather to worship our loving Father this Lord’s Day, we will join our hearts in song, singing the Hymn of Praise “Come, Ye Sinners, Poor and Needy.” the Acclamation of Praise “Jesus Paid it All,” and the Hymn of Response “O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing.” 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!
Sermon Information
Text: Colossians 1:3-8
Title: Awakening Gospel Renewal
Outline
- To Awaken Gospel Renewal the Message Must be Proclaimed.
- To Awaken Gospel Renewal the Message Must be Believed.
- To Awaken Gospel Renewal the Message Must Bear Fruit and Grow.