In the “New Life” Sunday morning service at Refuge Calvary Chapel, Pastor Geoff Wilson leads the congregation in worship and delivers a powerful message on the love of God and its inseparability from us. The service includes announcements about upcoming events, such as a church picnic, homeschool classes, a summer concert series, movie night, and beach speech nights. Pastor Geoff highlights the growth and impact of the church in Antioch, drawing parallels to the church in Huntington Beach and the need to reach people for Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of staying connected to God and the church community, encouraging believers to be like Barnabas, an encourager and supporter of God’s work.
Throughout the service, there are moments of powerful worship as the congregation sings songs of praise and surrender to God. Pastor Geoff invites the congregation to communion and reminds them of the love and grace of God poured out through this act. He encourages the church to be infused with the life of Christ and to support the work of ministry. The service concludes with a heartfelt song of worship, reminding everyone of the love and goodness of God. Overall, the “New Life” service at Refuge Calvary Chapel is a time of worship, teaching, encouragement, and reflection on the love of God.
Overview
Announcements and Music Session
Hey there! We hope you’re having a fantastic day. We want to start off this article by sharing some exciting announcements and inviting you to a special music session happening this week. We have some incredibly talented musicians who will be leading us in worship, and we can’t wait to lift our voices together in praise and worship.
Main Message: The Love of God
Now, let’s dive into the heart of our message today – the incredible, overwhelming love of God. It’s a love that never fails, never gives up, and never runs out on us. No matter what we’ve done, where we’ve been, or how broken we may feel, God’s love is always there, ready to embrace us. Take a moment to let that truth sink in and fill your heart with gratitude.
Prayers and More Music
As we continue our time together, we want to remind you that we are a community that believes in the power of prayer. If you have any prayer requests, please feel free to share them with us. We would love to lift you up in prayer and support you in any way we can. And of course, we’ll continue to enjoy more uplifting music throughout our gathering.
Invitation to Church Picnic at Murdy Park
We have some exciting news to share with you today! Our church is hosting a picnic at Murdy Park next weekend, and we would love for you to join us. It’s going to be a wonderful time of fellowship, food, and fun outdoor activities. So bring your family, friends, and a picnic blanket, and let’s celebrate together under the sun.
Information about Homeschool Classes
For all the homeschooling families out there, we have some great news for you! Our church will be offering homeschool classes starting next month. These classes are designed to provide a supportive and engaging learning environment for students of all ages. We believe in the importance of education and want to come alongside families in this journey. So if you’re interested, be sure to sign up and secure your spot.
Resonance Summer Concert Series
Calling all music lovers! We are thrilled to announce our Resonance Summer Concert Series, featuring talented local artists from the community. It’s going to be a summer filled with captivating performances and unforgettable moments. So mark your calendars and get ready for an incredible musical experience.
Fellowship and Enjoying the Outdoors
We believe that life is meant to be lived in community, and what better way to do that than spending time together outdoors? Whether it’s beach days, hikes, or picnics, we love to gather and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation. There’s something special about connecting with nature and each other, so keep an eye out for upcoming outdoor events and join us for some fun in the sun.
Movie Night at Refuge
Looking for a laid-back evening of entertainment and relaxation? We’ve got you covered! Join us for movie night at Refuge, where we’ll be screening a family-friendly film that’s sure to bring joy and laughter. Bring your cozy blankets, pillows, and snacks, and let’s unwind together as we watch a great movie under the stars.
Beach Speech Nights
We’re blessed to live in a place as beautiful as Huntington Beach, and we believe that God’s Word should reach every corner of our city. That’s why we’re excited to announce our Beach Speech Nights, where members of our church will have the opportunity to share encouraging messages by the ocean. It’s a chance for us to come together, listen to powerful speeches, and be inspired to live out our faith in our daily lives.
Need for Volunteers to Reserve Beach Pit
In order to continue hosting our Beach Speech Nights, we are in need of volunteers to help reserve the beach pit. It’s a simple task that involves contacting the local authorities and securing a spot for our gatherings. If you have a heart for serving and would like to contribute to this essential part of our outreach, please reach out to our volunteer coordinator. Your help will be greatly appreciated!
Celebration of Couple’s 50th Wedding Anniversary
We have something truly special to celebrate this month – the 50th wedding anniversary of one of our beloved couples. It’s a remarkable milestone that deserves recognition and praise. We want to honor their commitment, their love, and their faithfulness throughout the years. So join us as we celebrate their incredible journey and pray for continued blessings upon their marriage.
Importance of Staying Connected to God and Church Community
In this fast-paced and often chaotic world, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. That’s why it’s crucial for us to stay connected to God and our church community. It’s in these relationships that we find support, encouragement, and accountability. So let’s make it a priority to attend gatherings, join small groups, and participate in activities that help us deepen our connection with God and with each other. Together, we can navigate life’s ups and downs and experience the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.
Discussion on the Growth of a Church in Acts 11
Breaking Down Barriers Between Jews and Gentiles
In the book of Acts chapter 11, we witness an incredible transformation taking place within the early church. Up until this point, there was a clear divide between the Jewish and Gentile followers of Jesus. However, God had a greater plan in mind – to break down those barriers and unite all believers as one body in Christ.
Peter’s Vision and Reaching Out to Gentiles
One of the pivotal moments in this journey was when Peter had a vision from God, revealing that the Good News of Jesus was not limited to the Jewish people. He was then called to go and share the Gospel with a Roman centurion named Cornelius and his household. This encounter marked a significant shift in the early church’s perspective and opened their eyes to the inclusive nature of God’s love.
Stoning of Stephen and Persecution
As the Gospel began to spread beyond the confines of Judaism, opposition and persecution followed. Stephen, a faithful follower of Jesus, was stoned to death for boldly proclaiming his faith. This tragic event served as a catalyst for the church to scatter, spreading the message of Jesus even further.
Boldly Preaching the Word to Jews and Gentiles
Despite the challenges they faced, the early believers remained steadfast in their mission to preach the Word of God. They fearlessly proclaimed the Gospel not only to their Jewish compatriots but also to the Gentiles, recognizing that God’s love is all-encompassing and knows no boundaries.
Preaching the Gospel in Antioch
One of the notable cities where the Gospel took root was Antioch. Here, a great number of people turned to the Lord, and the news of this revival reached the ears of the church in Jerusalem. The Antioch believers became a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of Jesus and the victory of His love.
Antioch’s Similarities with Huntington Beach
As we reflect on the growth of the church in Antioch, we can’t help but draw parallels to our own community here in Huntington Beach. Just as Antioch was a diverse city with various cultures and beliefs, our city is a melting pot of people from different backgrounds and walks of life. This presents us with a unique opportunity to reach out and share the love of Christ with those around us.
Reaching the People of Huntington Beach
Just as the early church devoted themselves to preaching the Gospel, let us also be committed to sharing the message of Jesus with the people of Huntington Beach. There are so many individuals and families longing for hope, healing, and purpose. Let’s be intentional about building relationships, meeting needs, and pointing others to Christ through our words and actions.
God’s Hand and the Result of People Turning to the Lord
When we step out in faith and allow God to use us as vessels of His love, amazing things happen. Lives are transformed, families are restored, and communities are impacted. As we see people turning to the Lord and experiencing His grace, let us give all the glory to God, acknowledging that it is His hand at work in and through us.
News Reaching the Church in Jerusalem
When news of the incredible revival in Antioch reached the church in Jerusalem, they recognized the significance of what was happening. They knew that it was important to support and encourage the new believers in Antioch, just as Barnabas was sent to do.
Sending of Barnabas to Encourage and Support the Church
Barnabas, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, was chosen to go to Antioch and strengthen the believers there. His presence brought encouragement, exhortation, and a sense of unity to the growing church. Barnabas recognized the potential in the new believers and invested in their growth and development.
Barnabas: The Encourager
Characteristics of Barnabas
Barnabas, whose name means “son of encouragement,” lived up to his name. He portrayed key characteristics that every church needs in order to thrive. Barnabas was known for his generosity, kindness, humility, and unwavering faith. He had a heart for people and a genuine desire to see them flourish in their relationship with God.
Importance of Encouragers in the Church
Encouragers like Barnabas are vital to the health and growth of the church. They create an atmosphere of love and support, where individuals feel valued and empowered. Their words and actions bring hope, inspiration, and motivation. We all need someone like Barnabas in our lives – someone who sees our potential, believes in us, and speaks life into our circumstances.
Barnabas’ Belief in the Church’s Impact on Culture
Barnabas understood the transformative power of the Gospel and the potential impact the church could have on culture. He believed in the ability of the church to bring about positive change, both individually and collectively. His conviction fueled his passion to invest in and equip believers to be salt and light in their communities.
Recognizing the Grace of God
One of the remarkable aspects of Barnabas was his recognition of the grace of God in the lives of others. He didn’t hold grudges or keep records of past wrongs. Instead, he saw the potential for redemption and growth in every person he encountered. Barnabas reminds us to extend grace and forgiveness to one another, just as God has extended it to us.
Continuing to Cling to the Lord
Barnabas understood the importance of staying connected to the source of his strength – the Lord. Amidst the challenges and demands of ministry, he continually clung to his faith, drawing on God’s wisdom, strength, and grace. His steadfastness serves as a reminder for us to continually pursue a deep and intimate relationship with God, relying on Him in every season of life.
Seeking Help from Saul
Barnabas recognized the value of partnership and collaboration in ministry. When he saw the potential in Saul (later known as Paul), Barnabas sought him out and brought him alongside to join in the work of spreading the Gospel. This act of mentorship and discipleship allowed Paul to grow and flourish in his calling.
Teaching Ministry of Barnabas and Saul
Barnabas and Saul embarked on a teaching ministry, equipping and strengthening the believers in Antioch. They taught with authority and conviction, guiding the new believers in their understanding of God’s Word and their practical application of it. Together, they became a dynamic duo, empowering and encouraging the church to grow in maturity and faith.
Antioch: A Church that Gives
Prophets and People Seeking God
Antioch was known for its vibrant spiritual climate. Prophets and individuals seeking God’s presence and guidance were abundant in this city. The hunger for God fueled a fervent pursuit of His will, causing the church in Antioch to become a thriving community of believers.
Anticipating and Responding to the Great Famine
Antioch was a church that anticipated and responded to the needs of others. When the prophetic word revealed a great famine that would affect the region, the believers in Antioch were quick to take action. They gathered resources and sent relief to their brothers and sisters in Judea, demonstrating their commitment to caring for the needs of the larger Body of Christ.
Importance of Supporting Missions and Ministry
The example set by the church in Antioch reminds us of the importance of supporting missions and ministry, both locally and globally. By giving of our time, talents, and resources, we can make a significant impact in the lives of others. Whether it be through financial contributions, volunteering, or prayer, each one of us has a role to play in advancing God’s Kingdom and extending His love to those in need.
The Church in Antioch as Givers
The church in Antioch embodied the heart of giving. They were not self-centered or focused on their own needs, but rather selflessly sought to bless those around them. They recognized that the hand that gives is blessed, and in their generosity, they witnessed the faithfulness and provision of God.
Sending Relief to Brethren in Judea
When the great famine struck, the church in Antioch wasted no time in gathering resources to send relief to their brothers and sisters in Judea. They understood the interconnectedness of the Body of Christ and the importance of standing together in times of need. Through their acts of compassion, they demonstrated the love of Christ to those who were suffering.
Recognizing Jesus Through Communion
As the church in Antioch gathered together for communion, they recognized Jesus in their midst. They understood the significance of the Lord’s Supper, remembering His sacrifice and the unity it brings to the family of believers. Communion was not just an act of remembrance but a tangible expression of their faith and devotion to Christ.
Infusion of Life and Vitality in the Church
The church in Antioch experienced an infusion of life and vitality through their commitment to God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship. They nurtured an environment in which believers could grow and thrive, drawing in others who were hungry for truth and meaning. This vibrant community became a testament to the power of God’s transformative work.
Desire for Infusion in Huntington Beach Church
As we look to the example of the church in Antioch, we can’t help but desire the same infusion of life and vitality in our own church here in Huntington Beach. May we be a community that passionately pursues God’s presence, that cares for one another and those in need, and that seeks to make a lasting impact on our city.
Conclusion
As we conclude this article, we want to remind you of God’s incredible love and goodness. In our time together, we have explored various aspects of growing in faith, reaching out to others, and remaining connected to our church community. We encourage you to reflect on what you have learned and consider how you can apply these principles to your own life.
Let’s be a church that celebrates milestones, embraces diversity, supports one another, and above all, stays connected to the source of our strength – God Himself. May His love and grace shape our lives and overflow into the lives of those around us. As we remember His love and goodness during our worship, may we be transformed and empowered to be agents of change in our community. With God’s love as our foundation, let’s live out our faith wholeheartedly and make a difference in this world.