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It would benefit you to take a moment and look up all the Biblical references to this good word. It will soon appear that God expects His people to practice this great characteristic. When Paul writes to the church at Rome, he outlines for us the great redemptive work of the Savior. He describes the marvelous doctrine of Salvation in minute detail. And then in Chapter 12 he moves toward a clear call to the believer as to how he now should live. Those verses give details as to the Christian’s ethic, his manner of living, and his daily conduct. And note that right in the middle of his listings and advice comes this clear call—“practice hospitality.” (Rom. 12:13)

Over and over again we are given clear instruction in this area. Check any concordance and see how often this call is given. You will be helped as you review: I Tim. 3:2(characteristic of an overseer in the church is hospitality): I Tim. 5:10(here is a description of a godly woman who “shows hospitality”): Titus 1:8(leaders of the Church must “practice hospitality”): Heb. 13:2(entertain strangers, could be an angel): I Peter 4:9(Offer hospitality to one another) The Bible expects God’s people to be hospitable.

Dr. Ray Stedman preached a wonderful sermon and touched on hospitality in this way. “Paul, writing about the Macedonians, said ‘out of their deep poverty they gave liberally, first they gave themselves to the Lord, and then they gave themselves to us.’(2 Cor. 8:2-3) This is the normal Christian live-it is easy to live with-it is easy to work with-it is a wonderful kind of life. When you meet people who, like this, are showing the genuine love of the Spirit of God, you find that they are delightful people, you love to be around them, you love to work with them, you find them pleasant and approachable.” Hospitality and a hospitable spirit and attitude honor the Lord.

Our churches are challenged by the practice of hospitality. Some of our places of worship are so large with so many people it is really difficult to locate a visitor and make him feel welcome. People often either stay or leave the church on the basis of the feeling of welcome they receive. Christianity Today carried an article some time ago entitled, “Whatever Happened to Hospitality?” We need to ask ourselves that question. I know we are often afraid of strangers, and sometimes with good cause. But we need to ask the Lord to help us be careful and be hospitable when possible.

“The difference between entertaining and hospitality is this: When you entertain you’re concerned about how beautiful your table is or how clean your house is because you want to make a good impression; when you are hospitable, your focus is on the person. You seek to minister, to meet that person’s needs.”( The Bible for Today’s Christian Women-out of print.)

One of the great pleas for Christian hospitality is found in Matthew 25. Jesus tells a story about a king who told his people, “here is your reward for taking care of me.” His people answered incredulously, “When did we take care of you?” They had no recollection of ever even being in the presence of the king, The King replies to this: “You rendered services to one of the humblest, my brothers, these little ones-and you did it for me.” Matt. 25:40. Practice hospitality!!

How important an issue is this to you: the person and deity of Christ? I will tell you now that it is more and more a dividing point in American culture. We are living in a time when politically, the freedom of worship is applauded, but the freedom of religion is being attacked. People are into “Jesus,” but not the exclusivity of his claims. And what about you? How important is the person and deity of Christ to you; how does it affects you in the grid of your day to day life.

Well who did Jesus say He was? That question will occupy our Sunday thinking for the next five or six weeks as we look at His statements about himself in a series we’ll call, “The Deal Maker.” The bottom line reads that Jesus made some rather outlandish statements about himself like: I am the Truth; I am the Bread of Life; I am the Good Shepherd; I am the Vine. And this Sunday we start with the startling statement of the Savior when he simply said, “I AM.” I hope that you will be with us!

Things to keep in mind:

• Basketball camp for the kids is this coming week.
• VBS “Backstage with the Bible” and “GO FISH” concert – take the plunge! Sign up to help or get tickets for the concert now! We need about 15 more “guides” and set up team for Sunday, the 25th.
• There is very good reason to believe the new entrance to the church will be open this Sunday. I surely hope so!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

In the Bible, pride is looked upon as the basic sin. And, humility is viewed as a basic virtue, along with self-abasement. Now, this is pretty far-removed from the average person’s thinking about life. Usually we say as that famous baseball player said, “Nice guys finish last.” Or, “look out for number one(me)” Sometimes it is possible for a person to have a poor self-image-but not often. What is so special about humility?

Augustine, early theologian and church leader, said: “ If you ask me what is the first precept of the Christian religion I will answer, first, second and third, Humility.” This is the same person who described his feelings as: “My sin was all the more incurable because I did not think myself a sinner.”( Augustine of Hippo, 400 AD, from Bill White, Paramount, CA) Humility is self-denial, a giving up of self-confidence and self-will. Humility is a recognition of the supremacy of God. The dictionary says it is being “modest, aware of one’s limitations.” The Psalmist understood this when he said: “When I consider(you), what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?”(Ps. 8:3-5) Isaiah quotes for us, “I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit.” (Isa. 57:15)

Jesus humbled himself (Phil.2:7-8). Jesus washed the disciples feet and said this was an example for us to follow as his servants. The Old Testament offers this advice: … “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”(Mic. 6:8) “Give me humility, in which alone is rest, and deliver me from pride, which is the heaviest of burdens.” (Thomas Merton) Our Lord tells us: “This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit.”(Isa. 66:2)

Attitude counts so much. Here is good advice: “Always speak as one who learns, and not as one who knows.” Molinos-(From files of Leadership.) Jesus said one should humble himself as a little child in order to receive the kingdom of God. He reminded us that whoever would be first must be the servant of all. Many of you have heard of Rotary International, a community service club. I have always been impressed with that group’s official motto “Service above Self”. The Bible teaches clearly the need, not only to have humility towards God, but also to have humility toward others.

We read in Paul’s letter to a church—“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”(Phil.2:3). And in writing to another church he said: “..do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.”(Rom. 12:3) The well-known former chaplain of the U.S. Senate prayed : “Lord, when we are wrong, make us willing to change. And when we are right, make us easy to live with.”(Peter Marshall, Christian Reader,Vol.32, No. 4)

Humility is a wonderful Christian characteristic. Every true believer should be marked by this trait. This is true not only for leaders and prominent people, but for all the church. Humility is an evidence of faith and we need to strive to remember what God has done for us, and that all the glory belongs to Him.

When John Calvin, that truly outstanding Christian thinker and leader, was nearing his journey’s end, he gave strict instructions that he be buried in the common cemetery with no tombstone. He wished to give no encouragement to those who might make it a Protestant shrine. (J. Calvin-Christian History No 12.)

And Calvin’s fellow servant, Martin Luther, reminds us that “God creates out of nothing. Therefore, until a man is nothing, God can make nothing out of him.” (Christian History ,No 34.) Walk humbly with God.

This Sunday, we celebrate the 234th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. And, with Jeremiah 29: 4-14 as our text, I will address this God-given right to “pursue happiness,” in a message called, “God’s People in Pursuit of Happiness.” Let’s come together at 8:45 or 10:30. During the service we will introduce new members, celebrate communion and spend time praying for our nation!

• Next Sunday, July 11th, at 6:30 p.m., we will celebrate the completion of the Ordination process for our own Brian Farone! The one hour service will be followed by a reception to honor our faithful pastor. Most of us have never been to such a sacred meeting. Don’t miss this one.
• Women's Ministry -- Summer Coffee Break Bible Study begins Thursday, July 8, 9:30 to 11:30.
• Jewelry Party to help rescued women in Thailand – July 8th, 6:00-8:00. This party with a purpose is hosted by the Thailand Team at the home of Bonnie Kee. Call 773-3520 for directions.
• VBS – “Backstage with the Word of God,” is just around the corner…where will you be July 26-30? Here are our remaining needs:
• We need 12 "helpers" who will assist in the various rotation centers that the kids travel to (craft, games, snack, story), and 37 group guides who will travel with a group of 6-8 kids to all the centers each day. Group guides will play a key role in answering questions, helping kids at each center, and establishing relationships with them. Please call us at 489-4200 to tell Lynn, Jacquie or Betsy that you will be on the VBS team!

Latest word on the church entrance: It is a work in progress! Yes, there is progress. No, the new entrance will not be accessible for another week. That means, you will need to use the back entrance again this Sunday. The delay is related to the death of a sub-contractor, Mr. Daniel Toste, who lost his life in a work related accident in Santa Maria two weeks ago. Let’s pray for his family as they pull together.

 And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

What is the “Greatest Gift in the World?" 

If Jesus was an ordinary man, and He claimed to be Divine and God, then surely He was a liar and a lunatic. If that is the case, then all Christians should be pitied because they believe lies and are completely lost spiritually.  What remains is the proposition that Jesus is the Lord God, Savior and Creator of the universe.  Jesus Christ was crucified for “who He said He is” not for anything He did!  The Bible quotes Jesus saying, “The Father and I are One”.   

The evidence shows that the Bible is an inerrant document.  What was so profound about what Jesus said?  He said “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no-one comes to the Father (God) except through me (God the Son).”  This was not some casual statement.  Jesus said it as fact.   

Jesus is God incarnate!  God the Son!  If we want glorious eternal life, it comes through Jesus.  Through the Gospel, which is the power of God, for the salvation (eternal life) for everyone who believes (in Jesus) and repents (turns away from sin).  

There it is, the Greatest Gift in the world, “Eternal Life” (Salvation).  

WHY did Jesus say these things?  Because Jesus wants all to know the joy that is found in knowing Him.  That pure “joy” is WHY Christians share Jesus with friends, relatives and strangers. 
 

Because Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation, many think of Christians as intolerant.  However,  Jesus commanded His followers to spread His word to all nations.  Jesus told us to love Him and to love others.  WHY did Jesus say these things?  Because Jesus wants all to know the joy that is found in knowing Him.   That pure “joy” is WHY Christians share Jesus with friends and relatives.      

The Christian’s assurance for everlasting life after death is based on the “faith” that Jesus Christ died for our sins and we will be with Him in heaven.  Other religions require “works” in order to be “good enough”.  Within these two options lies a world of difference.  Let’s look into the difference.  Say, all other religions and cults are right and Christianity is wrong.  It seems to me that if I, as a Christian, naturally do “good” for others and the community I will be “good enough” to go to heaven or where ever one goes after death.  So, it appears I will be O.K. along with folks from other religions.   However, if Jesus is God, and if Christ is the “Way the Truth and the Life” then the Christian is doing what God (Jesus) said to do and will be with Jesus, in heaven, after death. 

What about the person who has heard about Jesus and rejects Him?  Can you say for certain what will happen to that person’s soul?   

What is a Christian?

I have mentioned Christianity a number of times.  Just what is it that makes a person Christian?  Well, there are five basic beliefs:

1. Believe that the Bible is from God and is without error.

2. Believe the “trinity” and that Jesus is the one true God. 

3. Believe in the virgin birth and other miracles in the Bible.

4. Believe that Jesus, God the Son, died on the cross for our sins.

5. Believe that Jesus rose from the dead, is alive today and will return as King over all creation. 

It doesn’t hurt to believe in Jesus.  But I wouldn’t want you to accept Him blindly.  Therefore, ask the Lord Jesus to reveal himself to you.  Jesus is alive today and He wants you and I to have a personal relationship with Him.  WHY?  So we can love Him and be with Him for eternity!   

Here are a couple of questions to get you thinking. If you would like to discuss these questions, or what is written above, please email Al at answers@ProJesus.com.

1.  Again, what is the greatest gift in the world?  In other words, “What can Jesus do for us?”  Explain!   

2.  Is any one of the “Basic Beliefs” for being a Christian more important than the others? 

Additional Reading:

The Bible
Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis
More Than A Carpenter, Josh McDowell
The Stones Cry Out, Randall Price
What is Creation Science?, Henry Morris
Essential Christianity, Walter Martin
Know Why You Believe, Paul Little
Is the New Testament Reliable?, Paul Barnett

This little word certainly has a lot of meanings. The Dictionary immediately lists about 11 or 12 different suggestions. We can't look at them all, but basically the word suggests deference, respect, privilege. We use it to proclaim things like, "I wish to honor his name." Or, "It is my honor to introduce the speaker." Or, "On my honor I tell you this." Comedian Rodney Dangerfield made everyone laugh with his celebrated expression, "I get no respect." To honor someone is surely to respect that person.

The Bible uses the word scores of times. It tells us to "honor our father and mother." "Those who honor me, I will honor." "He enjoyed long life, wealth, and honor." "Honor one another above yourselves."

We jokingly say, "there is no honor among thieves." Society cannot truly function without respect and deference to one another. "Nothing is useful except what is honorable." (John Jay, The American Revolution, Citation, Christian History, no. 50) How we treat people is reflective of what we believe. Civility is something of a lost trait in much of our daily living. Certain parts of the country pride themselves in never making eye contact with people as one walks down the street. Other parts go out of their way to be friendly, warm, respectful and civil. You don't have to be madly in love with people to be respectful. When I stand up to preach I try to remember that in the audience are people who suffer, people who have had a bad week, people who are discouraged, people who perhaps have not had an encouraging word recently from anyone. Be an encourager; try to honor your neighbor.

Respect will open doors. It will give you an opportunity to witness. It will present an occasion for you to offer to pray for someone, and sometimes all of this begins by the simple act of respect. Honor, civility, respect. These all relate to people, to the country, to the laws, to the great figures of the past. We do not always have to agree with these things, but they do demand our respect. In the Bible we read these basic and straightforward words. "fear God, honor the king." (I Pet. 2:17) The vertical challenge is to respond to God as He deserves, the horizontal challenge is to give due respect and honor to our human relationships.

The key to all of this is to get our priority straight. Honor belongs to Christ the Lord. Those great paeans of praise that ring through the last book in the Bible remind us of the One to Whom all honor belongs. "You are worthy, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power---"(Rev. 4:11) "Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise."(Rev. 5:12) "To Him that sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power for ever and ever."(Rev. 5:13)

My seminary professor, the revered and renowned theologian, Dr. Carl F. H. Henry, wrote, "A cheer for Jesus is no substitute for the Apostle's Creed."(Reformed Journal, 1989, Christianity Today, Vol 33, no 13) Light and frothy exclamations do not necessarily reflect honor and respect. The highest and best are due to the One who loved us and gave Himself for us. We honor Him by serving Him. We honor Him by the lives we give to Him in sacrificial devotion. He alone is worthy.

"We pay God honor and reverence, not for His sake(because He is of Himself full of glory to which no creature can add anything), but for our own sake." (Thomas Aquinas, medieval theologian, from Men of Integrity, Vol. 1, no. 1.)

It is God's will that we honor Him, that we respect each other, and that His name is foremost in our daily experience.

#4  Did Jesus Live?

According to scholars there are ten non-Christian sources that, within 150 years of Christ's death, mention Jesus Christ in their writings. During the same 150 years there are nine non-Christians sources that mention the Roman who was emperor during the time of Jesus, Tiberius Caesar. No one doubts that Tiberius Caesar was an actual man who lived during the first century nor should anyone doubt that Jesus Christ lived at the same time.

Christian tradition will have it that already as early as 30 A.D. the followers of Jesus were most utterly persecuted by the Jewish authorities. On the other hand, we know that Christians and Jews were undistinguished by the Roman authority until the closing years of the first century, and that, too, not only in Palestine but also among the Dispersion a consideration which in the opinion of some critics tends somewhat to weaken the strength of the traditional line of demarcation which is regarded as having been drawn between Jewish and Gentile Christians in the Diaspora by Pauline propaganda. Moreover, we are further assured by Talmud scholars that according to Jewish tradition Jews and Jewish Christians were not distinctly separated out till the reign of Trajan (98-117 A.D.), or even still later in Hadrian’s time (117-138 A.D.).

The New Testament writings are about Jesus Christ.  So, did Jesus really live?  Below are some of the 1st and 2nd Century non-Christians mentioned who Christ in their writings: 

Epistle of Pseudo-Barnabas A.D.70                                                                                               Clement A.D.95
Ignatius A.D.110
Papias A.D.130
Tacitus A.D.112
Lucian & Josephus 2nd century
Suctonius A.D.120
Pliny A.D.112.

These writings confirm the fact that Jesus did live 2000 years ago.  Now, since we have determined that Jesus lived and that the Bible is a very reliable document, then our next question should be;

#4b  “Is Jesus The Creator and God?” 

Noted author, C. S. Lewis, makes the point that Jesus  was either a liar and lunatic or He is Lord and Creator of the universe.  There is no place for anything else, like “He was a good teacher.”  Nothing in the Bible or the action of his followers indicates this point of view.  Let’s first look at the possibility that Jesus was a liar and a lunatic.  If Jesus was an ordinary man, and He claimed all that is in the Bible, then surely He was a liar and a lunatic.  If that is the case, then all Christians should be pitied because they believe lies and are completely lost spiritually.  What remains is the proposition that Jesus is the Lord, Savior and Creator of the universe.  Jesus Christ was crucified for “who He said He is” not for anything He did!  He said, “The Father and I are One”.  Evidence shows that the Bible is a very reliable document.  So let’s review a few prophecies in the Bible about Christ

PROPHECY

OLD TESTAMENT
REFERENCE

NEW TESTAMEN
FULFILLMENT

Born of a Virgin

Isaish 7:14

Matthew 1:22

Called Emmanuel
(GOD with us)

Isaiah 7:14

Matthew 1:23

Born in Bethlehem

Micah 5:2

Matthew 2:5

The Word (Jesus) was rejected

Isaiah 53:1-3

John 1:10-11

Raised from the dead

Psalms 16:10

Matthew 28:2-8

There are at least 40 more major prophecies that were exactly in line with the life of Jesus.  The odds of one man fulfilling all of the prophecies is astronomical and impossible without divine intervention.  In fact, Hugh Ross has calculated that the probability of the chance fulfillment of only 13 Bible predictions showed less than one chance in 10 with 138 “zeros” following. 

What was so profound about what Jesus said and WHY?  Jesus said “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life, no-one comes to the Father (God) except through me.”  This was not some casual statement or threat.  Jesus said it as fact.  Jesus is God incarnate!  God the Son!  If we want glorious eternal life, it comes through Jesus.  Through the Gospel, which is the power of God, for the salvation of everyone who believes! 

Christians worship Jesus, the one true God.  One objection to Christianity seems to be the unwillingness of the human psyche to “Worship” anyone, even if that “one” is God.  Most say “I will be O.K. if I am just a good person.”  Another objection to Christianity is the concept of the “trinity”.  If Jesus is God then the concept of the trinity (three persons but one God) must be true.  Surely, God would not come to earth as a human and leave heaven unoccupied!  Most people reject the trinity!

Here are a couple of questions to get you thinking. If you would like to discuss these questions, or what is written above, please email Al at answers@ProJesus.com.

1.  If Jesus is a real person; what was His purpose on earth?

2.  What is the Greatest thing that Jesus can give us?

These next two weekends are to be reminders of a work never done – not until Christ returns! I am speaking of the work of missions. Our theme is “A Century of Missions!” And we have the extreme privilege of hosting more than a dozen missional families that are convinced that, even though millions of people have been reached this year with the gospel, the making of disciples in all our world is a life-time calling!

My prayer is that as Jim Yost speaks this Sunday and Dana Ostby the next, and as we meet in classes and homes during the week, every single one of us will listen to God’s voice to carry out this God-commissioned calling. What do you say, “Let’s get on with work!”

As a part of our missional work:

• We are looking for 60 more “helpers” or “group guides” for our amazing Vacation Bible School Experience which happens July 26-30th. You got it – the work is never done! So email back of your readiness to be on the team or contact Lyn or Betsy. Please, let us hear from you this week!
• WAM! Music and Arts Children’s Music Camp begins on the 28th. The worship of God really is never done! Let’s train our children well in a very fun environment!
• Kyle and Linda Chappell, Becca Ashton, and a team of five ESL teachers are getting ready to go to participate in a work never done. Becca is fired-up about getting back to Budapest, Hungry, Kyle and Linda are passionately yet patiently waiting upon God to get them back to Albania, and our incredible short-term ESL team is preparing to do evangelistic work this July in Albania. Let me simply ask you to pray about helping them get back to the work to which God is clearly calling them. Contact Kyle, Becca, or Brent Freeby (or ESL team leader) if you are being led to help!

Ah, don’t forget – allow for more time to get to church – for the work on GRACE LANE – seems like it is “NEVER DONE.”

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

We are fortunate to live in a time of history that is so very rich in archeological discoveries.  Since the middle of the 19th century, the number of “digs” have increased dramatically.  Much of the work, or digs, have been in the area mentioned in the Bible.  There have been uncountable locations, names and treasures that are indicated in the Bible that have been verified with these archeological digs.  Not one of the archeological findings have shown the Bible to be wrong.  On the contrary, when a dig involved an area of the Bible, it verified in detail, the description in the Bible.  For example: A dig in 1923 discovered, without doubt, Ur of the Chaldees.  Also found were clay tablets with Biblical names of that era. Another find: Even though the Hittites are mentioned 47 times in the Bible, scholars doubted that they existed because no historical evidence of such people had been found.  Then in 1876, Hugo Winckler uncovered 5 temples and 10,000 clay tablets.  They were deciphered and shown that the Hittits did really exist in the area described in the Bible. ??  Also, the location of Christ’s trial, the “Pool of Bathesda” and the fact that there was a “census” at the time of Christ and that Quirinus was governor have all been verified with archeological discoveries.  Obviously, we could list many more, however, that is not the purpose of this paper. 

History tells us that the early Jewish historians were extremely careful in copying  existing documents (i.e. the Torah).  In the early centuries after Christ’s Resurrection, the rapidly growing number of churches and home groups required an increased supply of copies of the Old and New Testament books.  The Gospels and Letters in the New Testament, which were written from 50 A.D. to 95 A.D., were transcribed with every bit the same accuracy as the Old Testament books by the early Jewish historians.

The oldest Greek version of the Old Testament is called the Septuagint.  It was completed at the end of the 2nd Century B.C. In 405 A.D., Jerome translated the Bible into Latin which was called the Vulgate.  In 1380 A.D., John Wycliff used the Vulgate to translate the Bible into English.  In 1456 A.D., the gutenberg Bible was printed.  In 1517 A.D., Martin Luther posted his 95 theses (The Reformation).  From 1520 to 1530 A.D., Tyndale studied Greek and Hebrew for a translation into English.  Through the years, there were translations into many languages.  In 1901 A.D., the American Standard edition changed England’s dialect to American dialect. 

Another source that shows the reliability of the Bible are the  “Dead Sea Scrolls”.   These scrolls were first discovered in 1948 in some caves in the area of Qumram, near the Dead Sea in Israel. It is believed that the scrolls were placed in clay jars around 70 A.D. at the end of the uprising against Rome. These scrolls have been reviewed for content and discovered to be the same as the Bible of today. In other words, our Bible has not changed in 2000 years. WHY? 

Besides the “Dead Sea Scrolls”, many historical writings have been found to verify the reliability of the Bible.  We will discuss the writings in the next section.  

There are three principles in determining the historical reliability of any document.  These principles are the bibliographical test, the internal evidence test and the external evidence test.  

The Bibliographical Test as explained by Josh McDowell is an examination of the textual transmission by which documents reach us.  Since we do not have the original documents, we should ask, how reliable are the copies we have in regard to the total number of manuscripts and the time interval between the original and the extant copy.  This time frame in some cases is less than 50 years.  When comparing the original manuscripts of the New Testament with those of ancient secular history, you will see that the quantity of New Testament manuscripts are abundant.  Let’s take a look at these numbers: 

 
      AUTHOR

 
      WRITTEN

 
      EARLIEST

      COPY

 
      TIME

      SPAN

 
      COPIES

 
Caesar

 
100-44B.C.

 
900A.D.

 
1000 years

 
      10

 
Plato

 
427-347B.C.

 
900A.D.

 
1200 years

 
      7

 
Aristotle

 
384-322B.C.

 
1100A.D.

 
1400 years

 
      49

 
Homer

 
900B.C.

 
400B.C.

 
500 years

 
      643

 
New Testament

 
48-110A.D.

 
125A.D.

 
15-90 years

 
20,000+

The Internal Evidence Test is that, one should consider the claims of the document and not assume error unless there are known inaccuracies.  For example; Luke says “I myself have carefully investigated everything . . . ”; Peter said; “ . . . we were eyewitnesses of His majesty”; John said “We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard”.  The internal testimony of the New Testament contains eyewitness testimony of the ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth.   

The External Evidence Test  The primary-source of Matthew and Mark are verified by non-biblical sources using the external evidence test.  What historical secular writers and materials confirm the external evidence test?  Due to lack of space, only a few will be noted here:

• Epistle of Pseudo-Barnabas A.D.70
• Clement A.D.95
• Ignatius A.D.110
• Papias A.D.130
• Tacitus A.D.112
• Lucian & Josephus 2nd century
• Suctonius A.D.120
• Pliny A.D.112 .

As was stated previously, nothing has been “proven” here.  However, the evidence for the Bible being an accurate document is far beyond reasonable doubt.  It’s not hard to understand WHY?   

Let’s look at more evidence.  Besides the question of accurate transcription of the Biblical books, another question that is usually  brought up is one of reliability of  the Bible “stories.”  I will mention only one such “story” here.  Many people do not believe the story of Shadrach, Mechach and Abednego, Daniel’s friends, who where thrown into a fiery furnace.  They were not harmed by the fire.  That story seems a bit hard to believe, I’ll admit.  However, in the year 168A.D., Polycarp, the leader of the church in Smyrna, was ordered to be burned alive.  He was tied to a stake and the fire was set.  According to eyewitnesses, Polycarp did not burn.  Then the executioner stabbed him and his blood poured out and quenched the fire.  Unlike Shadrach, Mechach and Abednego, Polycarp did die, but from the stab wound not the fire.  WHY?

So, what can ”Jesus do for You” concerning Bible Reliability (Inerrancy)?  We can be assured that the entire Bible is “God inspired”, the Bible is Inerrant and should be used as a “Truth” document in all phases of your life. ( 2Tim 3:16)  See the “Scriptures” section on the ProJesus web site for further information.  

Jesus recorded the Bible because He knew that we would need the information it contains. 

Here are a couple of questions to get you thinking. If you would like to discuss these questions, or what is written above, please email Al at answers@ProJesus.com.

1.  What Science has helped us most to understand the Bible? 

2.  Are all the stories in the Bible really true?  Explain? 

To be Continued 

We have the same issue when we try to describe “forgiveness.” We think that once it is offered everything is “fine and dandy.” Not necessarily! So this Sunday, as we conclude our series on Unpacking Forgiveness, let’s concentrate our study on “What Forgiveness is Not.” I hope that you’ll be here!

Many of you are waiting to hear about the Youth and Family Building. Here is the latest. We have cash or commitments that are within $4,000 of our goal. Secondly, 95% of the church members that voted approved the expenditure of the funds to build the building! Also, with only three “no-votes” the annual financial plan was adopted last Sunday afternoon as well! We asked that the church pray and indicate what God has told them to do! Let’s press forward and reach our community!

Here are a few other important reminders:

• A Century of Missions, our annual missions conference begins on the 18th with a very wonderful, don’t-miss-it, you-gotta-be-there-ladies brunch! For details on this or all the rest of the conference check the WEB.
• Back Stage with The Bible VBS is ready for you to sign up to help. If you love God and love His kids – give Betsy or Lyn a call at 489-4200. Hundreds of kids are looking for your involvement!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

The theory of evolution says that all living things improve with time.  However, the very complicated second law of thermodynamics, in physics, states that all energy decreases with time so that at some point in time all things will die including all animals.  For example, our sun, will not burn “forever”, it is dying.  And, the first principal of physics states from nothing, nothing derives.  Therefore, the universe started from something.  Who made that something? AND WHY?  

The theory of evolution really pertains to the physical.  How does evolution account for moral consciousness, feelings like love, hate, depression and so many more?  
 
So now let’s go back to the idea of a creation and a creator, whom we will call GOD (Jesus God the Son).  We will discuss Jesus in session number three (3).  Some questions we have, simply don’t have an answer, like, “Who made God”.  Some answers must be left to faith.  We as humans have faith in many things.  Questions like:

“WHY” does the earth have perfect tilt and rotation?
“WHY” does the sun give us perfect heat, light and gravity (one sun/three powers)?
“WHY” are the magnetic poles and the star locations perfect for navigation??
“WHY” and how does the human heart get enough rest between 3,400,000,000  beats in a lifetime?   The eye has so many parts that must come together at the same time, thus it is irreducibly complex. 

You know that we could go on with a list like this for a long time.  However, one important questions is; Why were we created?  The answer is; for the Glory of God (Jesus the Son).

One of the greatest scientists of all times, Einstein, formulated the necessity for a beginning “and the presence of a superior reasoning power, a creator”.   Just what does it take for the universe to stay in fine tune??  Review the following parameters and judge for yourself:
1. There must be “entropy” or energy degradation at the proper amount.
2. The ratio of the electromagnetic force constant to the gravitational force constant.
3. Ratio of electron to proton mass.  
4. Expansion rate of the universe.
5. Velocity of light
6. The size of the earth - If smaller- no atmosphere; If larger deadly hydrogen.
7. Perfect distance from the sun - a small change would make earth too hot or cold.
 
Are these parameters complicated?  Yes!  WHY?  All the more evidence for creation and not by chance.  There are actually many, many more characteristics that could be mentioned.  

The words “by chance” always come up when discussing evolution.  However, no one would believe that a computer could come into being without an intelligent designer, or a watch or a building or a car or an airplane etc. . .  Could a monkey set up the type for Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address?  How much more incredible is it to believe that the universe, in all its infinite complexity, could have “just happened” by chance.  If the universe appeared by chance and our solar system and earth are just accidents then plants, animals and humans came about by accident also.  However, the possibility of our feelings like hate and love and our thinking ability being shear accident is absolutely absurd.   

Here are a couple of questions to get you thinking. If you would like to discuss these questions, or what is written above, please email Al at answers@ProJesus.com.
    1.  What does it mean to have transitional fossils?
    2.  What do the words “Irreducible Complexity” mean to you?

Now, the purpose of telling this woeful tale is that some things aren’t as easy as they appear. So, I simply want to tell you, as we prepare for our third message on “Unpacking Forgiveness,” restoring tranquility to broken relationships is harder than we think – harder than restoring electricity to a broken fountain. Ah, but it can be done! So, I’m inviting you to come and consider our message this week, entitled, “How Can I Forgive When it Hurts So Much?” And yes, it will take a house call! Not from me, but from the one that designed us in the first place; God!

We will also celebrate a symbol of our restoration – communion, as well as introducing a number of new members to the fellowship.

Also…

• Sunday at noon – our semi-annual congregational meeting: We will vote on our financial plan, be asked to approve the building of the Youth and Family Building and, meet some of those new members and more. AND, lunch will be served! (Best lunch bargain in town!) Come, even if you are not yet a member!
• This Sunday at 4:00 we will gather in the Community Room for a Report and Refreshment (R&R) from Becca Ashton and the Albania Team of Stepanians, Farones, and Stephen Schwartz.
• Also tickets are on sale for $4.00 for the Women's Missionary Brunch on Friday morning, June 18th at 9:30 a.m. Jo Shetler will be speaking on the changes in her own ministry and the things she sees happening that are changing the way missions is done in Wycliffe and other venues.
• VBS, “Backstage with the Bible”, is just around the corner (July 26-30). But we need you to help us by being a Group Guide. For more information or to get on the team – call Lyn or Betsy – or stop by the Children’s Ministry Window in the Lobby.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Do you believe deeply in Jesus and the Bible or do you have questions regarding Jesus and the Bibles content?  Whatever your position may be I hope your questions will be answered.  The Bible, in Jude 3, urges us . . . “to contend earnestly for the faith” . . .  and 1 Peter 3:15 states to . . . “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks for the reason for the hope that is in you”.  I urge you to read all of the enclosed and keep an open mind to the facts and evidence that will be presented.  In most cases, we will not present a proof of a particular subject, simply because a proof  may not be possible.  For example, I can not prove creation.  Also, there is no proof for evolution.  However, we will present strong evidence for creation.  Facts and evidence will be presented, with which, you will be able to answer the question . . . WHY?  We will reason with you and present evidence  so that you and you alone will decide what is true and what is not true.  All of the following information is written and presented in love. 

It is true that “faith” is a basic ingredient within Christianity.  We are not saved by Faith and Works, we are saved by Faith that Works.  However, the more knowledge of the facts and evidence that we obtain will increase our confidence that our faith is certain. 

For example, let’s say; you have a legal problem and you have faith in Mr. Smith because he is a lawyer.  Then you hear from one of his clients and he tells you that Mr. Smith went to a good university, is up to date with all the latest legal data and court cases, and he listens very well to what you have to say.  You read an article that Mr. Smith has written on your legal problem and you like what you read.  As the evidence increases, your confidence in Mr. Smith has increased and likewise your faith in his ability, even though you may have never met him.  Do you see the comparison to Jesus?  We have never seen Him yet we have faith in Him because of the evidence.  We have used logic and reason to develop the evidence.

We ask the question again: “What can Jesus do for you”?  What is the most important area in your life?  What is it that you just can’t do without?  Is there an area in your life more important than planning for your salvation?  If there is; Why is it more important?  People pray (or demand) that God do many things for them.  For example, they want a job or a better job, they want a family, they want good health, travel, money and the list is a mile long.  Will Jesus just hand over anything we ask for?  Or will Jesus (God the Son) provide for our needs?  What is best for us and the exact time that our request be granted?  Then again, maybe Jesus will decide we really shouldn’t have that new car and He will somehow put a dent in our finances.  And/or we might have to wait some time before Jesus allows us to have our wish.  Our request (prayer) MUST be within His will.

God knows what we need most and what is most important for us.  If we needed:
More Information----- God would have sent us an--------Educator!
More Technology---- God would have sent us a----------Scientist!
More Money----------- God would have sent us an--------Economist
More Leisure---------- God would have sent us an--------Entertainer

But those items aren’t really what is most important for us; is it?   

So, just what can Jesus do for you and for me?  That’s the main question the whole non-Christian world is asking.  This pluralistic world we live in wants anything and everything to be their “god”.  

Here are a couple of questions to get you thinking. If you would like to discuss these questions, or what is written above, please email Al at answers@ProJesus.com.

As a boy, the Parker Brothers had me hooked. Had I the opportunity, I would play “Sorry”, the “game of sweet revenge” for hours; at least until I won. I knew that the only way to get all four of my pawns to “Home,” that is to win, required some success at “bumping” the pawns of my opponents all the way back to “Start.” And, with each act of “bumping,” came the somewhat emotional, sometimes giddy, “Sorry.”

Only, did I feel sorry? If so, why would I repeatedly take the same vitriolic action? I know why – winning was everything! My guess is that if winning is the whole enchilada, your forgiveness-factor may be weaker than Wisconsin coffee!

As we begin a series of messages this weekend about this systemic issue of “forgiveness,” one thing I’m discovering is that it needs more serious attention then we tend to give it. Now, it won’t be until next weekend that we will lay out a major definition for “forgiveness”. This Sunday, rather, using Matthew 5:21-26 as our text, we want to discover just how serious an issue this is. I’ll tell you right now – It is not a game! So, I hope to see you at the 8:45 or 10:30 service when we’ll begin “Unpacking Forgiveness.”

Also…

• Commitment Sunday… If you haven’t yet submitted a “commitment” card for the proposed Youth and Family Building… now is the time. Please bring yours or come prepared to fill one out. This dream seems impossible unless God moves us all to participate. For more details on the building proposal, click here.
• Next Sunday afternoon (May 23rd at 3 p.m.), “Graceful,” our gifted and gift-giving choir will present “How can I Keep from Singing?” - a choral concert of music from this past year. It will be followed by a light meal – five dollars per person or ten per family. So, bring the kids too!
• Weekly Women’s Walking Group - Ladies, click here to find out more!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

This Sunday is called Mother’s Day. But, I’ll be speaking about more than “motherhood.” Rather, for all of us, I will try to answer the question, “What might our children say about us”? When we wrap it up on earth, what will they be saying? We’ll think about the question from the perspective of the home as well as from the church. What would you hope they’d say? Our lesson comes from Matthew 18: 1-6.

Reminders:

· Thursday at 12:20, as a part of the National Day of Prayer, many of us will be meeting to pray for our community, state and nation at the Arroyo Grande City Hall on East Branch Street.

· Saturday at 9:00 – is our first of two opportunities to hear about the Youth and Family Building and to ask more questions. The second meeting will be on Monday evening at 7:00. Both meetings will be held in the Community room. There will be child-care for these discussions.

· Saturday the 15th – Please sign up now for Serve Day. The demonstration of our care for the community calls for an all-out blitz. What a wonderful opportunity we have to show we care. Go to http://www.servedaycentralcoast.com/ to sign up! Come on!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!
Joe Bubar

Oh, I remember Bob, whom I last saw about seven years ago. It seemed as if he fought his way into Christ’s Kingdom. I’ll probably never know a man who asked as many sincere questions as did Bob about salvation and Jesus and the church. But eventually, he trusted Christ as His Savior. And then, I had the privilege of baptizing him, as Bob publically confessed his faith. That was a great day, too!

Old friends… one, Evan, still working at the age of 74. One in heaven where time is no more! And, to think, somehow God used me in both these men’s lives, so long ago.

Well… all of that to say - this week I have the privilege of introducing to many of you a friend who is not old, not to me, but he still is an old friend; our former associate pastor, Roy Fruits. He and his family are visiting with us this weekend, and we’ve asked Roy to bring the morning message. Come and listen… 8:45 or 10:30. And after the service, if you’ve known Roy, tell him about a difference he made in your life!

Here’s a few other reminders:

• Any Day:
  If you were not here last Sunday, please listen to the sermon. You’ll find “Join the God-Cause” on our website or in the foyer at the information desk. In it you will hear about the new plan for the Youth and Family Building.
• May 1st:
  10:30 am  - Women’s Spring Tea
  6:30 pm  - “Go Jonah Go” – children’s musical!
• May 15th:
  Serve Day – Central Coast – all day. We begin to sign up this Sunday! 

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

I don’t know about you, but I for one want to be a C21 church, not a C20. I want to be sticky, but never stuck! I want to be attractional, not traction-less.

Well, this Sunday, with I Peter 5: 1-4 as our foundation, we’ll consider “What to Look for in a C21 Church.” You might be surprised by the answers. Hope that you’ll be with us at 8:45 or 10:30.

• Men, come on men… cough it up, shell it out, put it on the table! It’s time to sign up for our in-town, loads-of-fun Men’s Conference. We’ve called it “Go Beyond Ourselves”: great food, great speaker -Pastor Roy Fruits, and great fellowship. Let’s do it!
• Next Sunday noon, April 18th – our Grace Alive Ministries is sponsoring another great luncheon with guest Paul Allen of Main Street Produce in Santa Maria and the founder and director of Solid Rock Ranch, a foster home ministry. Please get your tickets this Sunday.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Almost 2000 years ago there was a mass of mobilized “fans” that, on a spring Sunday, gave it up for Jesus as he rode a borrowed donkey down Mount Zion’s road to Jerusalem. The crowds – wow, the crowds were beside themselves! Sometimes I wonder if I would have joined in. How about you?

Well if you read the story of Palm Sunday in places like Luke 19, you will find three distinct responses to Jesus that day. We’ll see that not all cheered. As we begin our remembrance of Christ’s Passion, we’ll check out all three. I’m calling the message, “Praise Be.” Pastor Randy, our adult and children’s choir, and Shelanie Voorheis are preparing for a very meaningful worship experience. So, even if you wouldn’t stand in 1A Plaza, I hope you’ll be with us to praise the King of Kings at 8:45 or 10:30.

• Give us a call today or tomorrow if you can be a part of our next “Join Grace” class which takes place this Sunday evening. We’ll spend from 5-8 pm eating, sharing, and learning together.
• Make sure that you check the WEB for the entire Easter Week schedule.
• And, here’s a “per-chance” idea. Here is an opportunity to be Jesus with feet in our own community. For 20 years LifeLine has been here on the Central Coast sharing the love of Jesus with women and men facing crisis pregnancies. This Saturday LifeLine is holding a 2-mile beach walk from Grand Avenue to the Pismo Beach pier and back beginning at 9:00 am. They are looking for sponsors or anyone willing to gather sponsors and even walk themselves. If you want to buy in, please contact Debbie Pearce at debbepearce@att.net or call at 709-3306.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Well, you would have thought the agitated traveler in 12A had been told he was going to be locked on the plane for the next 16 hours. He was ticked. But it was when the flight attendant properly took his own seat that we knew how upset “Mr.12A” really was. He leaned over to the acquaintance, a woman, sitting next to him, and fired-off of the attendant, “Man, he’s a /@%#$!” I mean, 12A was all torn up over having to wait five minutes to get his bag.

So honestly, what tears you up? What causes you to give a piece of your mind that you can’t afford to lose? And what do you do when you are royally upset?

The Apostle, Peter, gives us some clues to help us answer this question as we probe our next section of I Peter 4 (12-19) in a message we’ll call, “Bear Down.” I do hope you will be with us at 8:45 or 10:30 for an “on-time” beginning to our worship celebration this Sunday. Because if you are not… I’ll be the one “torn up!”

A few other highlights…

• Join Grace – a class to help people interested in possibly teaming up with us at Grace Bible Church will be offered on Sunday evening, March 28th, from 5:00 – 8:00. A great little meal is included. And if you need childcare, we’ve got that covered too. Let us know, and come find out more about what this fellowship is all about.
• The Easter Weekend (April 2-4) includes:
  • A community Good Friday service at 1:00 here. This will be when we will celebrate communion in the month of April.
  • A family pre-Easter experience Saturday beginning at 5:30. You’ll need the details, which you will find at Family Worship Night.
  • Three Resurrection-Morning services at 8:00, 9:30 and 11:00. We are calling this evangelistic message “Down the Road – Responses to a Resurrection.” It will be a great morning. Isn’t there someone that should be coming with you?

Since we are reading so many short books this week, I thought it might be helpful to include a handful of short summaries, one on each of the Biblical books we are reading. These summaries are from the ESV Study Bible, which I use, love and highly recommend.

Galatians
"Christ's death has brought in the age of the new covenant (3:23–26; 4:4–5, 24), in which believers do not have to become Jews or follow the outward ceremonies of the Mosaic law (2:3, 11–12, 14; 4:10). To require these things is to deny the heart of the gospel, which is justification by faith alone, not by obedience to the law (2:16; cf. 1:6–7). In this new age, Christians are to live in the guidance and power of the Spirit (chs. 5–6)."

Ephesians
"There are two main themes of Ephesians: (1) Christ has reconciled all creation to himself and to God, and (2) Christ has united people from all nations to himself and to one another in his church. These great deeds were accomplished through the powerful, sovereign, and free working of the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and are recognized and received by faith alone through his grace. In light of these great truths, Christians are to lead lives that are a fitting tribute of gratitude to their great Lord."

Philippians
"The chief theme of Philippians is encouragement: Paul wants to encourage the Philippians to live out their lives as citizens of a heavenly colony, as evidenced by a growing commitment to service to God and to one another. The way of life that Paul encourages was manifested uniquely in Jesus Christ; it was also evident in the lives of Paul, Timothy, and Epaphroditus."

Colossians
"Christ is Lord over all of creation, including the invisible realm. He has secured redemption for his people, enabling them to participate with him in his death, resurrection, and fullness."

1 Thessalonians
"The most prominent theme in 1 Thessalonians is the second coming of Jesus. It is mentioned in every chapter of the book (1:10; 2:19–20; 3:13; 4:13–18; 5:1–11, 23–24). At Jesus' future coming, the dead in Christ will rise and will be caught up along with the living to meet the Lord in the air (4:15–17). Unbelievers will be subject to his wrath, but Christians will be delivered from this, inheriting salvation instead (1:10; 5:2–4, 9–10). Those who are destined to participate as saints (lit., “holy ones”) in the second coming must be holy and blameless (3:11–4:8; 5:23), and God, who is faithful, will produce holiness in the lives of those whom he calls (5:24)."

2 Thessalonians
"The theme of the second coming of Jesus dominates 2 Thessalonians just as it dominated 1 Thessalonians. Jesus' coming will be preceded by an “apostasy” (or rebellion) and by the revelation of the man of lawlessness, the Antichrist (2 Thess. 2:3). When Jesus comes, he will defeat this rebellious world ruler (2:8) and bring justice to oppressed Christians, and wrath to their persecutors and to unbelievers in general (1:5–10; 2:9–15)."

The early Christians needed to be armed as well for what was thrown at them. That seems to be at the heart of Peter’s argument found in the next large section of his first letter. So, read I Peter 3: 8 – 4:6 in preparation for either the 8:45 or 10:30 service and then join us for an on-time beginning of our worship of God as we consider how to “Be Armed for Good!”

• Eight of our ladies would be excited to tell you about their recent mission-vision trip to Thailand! Join us in the community room at 4:00 this Sunday afternoon to get the story about rescuing trafficked women and children!
• Men – get ready for a great, affordable “stay-home” men’s retreat. (No, that’s not an oxymoron). You’re going to love the speaker! More information is available this Sunday in the lobby or by clicking on “Men’s Conference.”
• “Join Grace,” our introduction to the beliefs, values, and practices of our church, is scheduled for March 28th. If you’ve been attending for a while and are thinking about a next step with the church please make this information-packed gathering a priority. You’ll get some too-good food too! (Try saying that three times!)

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Now, my wife loves a clean house. I love pleasing my wife, even if I don’t love cleaning the house. But, was my effort all a part of some marriage game? Hardly! The pointedly humorous Kevin Leman writes in his new book, Have a New Husband by Friday, “Marriage isn’t about who wins the game. It is about running the race together.” That’s all I was trying to do. I was just trying to run along with her! When that happens, God wins!

In I Peter 3, the ancient author, with God-given-words, describes how to win husbands and how to win with God, all in the context of marriage. And that’s why I’ll be speaking this weekend on, “Be Winning... Where it Counts.” This message is for more than just the married. And that’s why I hope that you, your family, and friends will be with us at 8:45 or 10:30 for an on-time beginning of our mutual worship of our great God and Savior and the study of His Word!

Also…

• Last week we heard about Serve Day-May 15th. This week, as we look to see how God would have us be more missional in our community, we’ll hear about the next really neat Brighten-A-Corner opportunity.
• Remember that tomorrow evening at 7:00, a great Southern Gospel concert will be offered in the worship center by the Blackwood Brothers Quartet. We’ll be giving them an offering to help with their expenses.
• Saturday evening – come for a shared meal, some really kid-friendly music, and our own Middle school Director, Nate Sellstrom as he shares a brief message at our Family Worship Service. The “pot-luck begins at 5:30 and the service about 7 p.m.

 From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

The truth is that, again, we are living in a season when leadership is anything but trusted; anything but respected!

But then the most radical of all the disciples, Peter, who at one point took the sword to the ear of a government official, eventually wrote this missive in which he taught that we should “Be Respectful…and a whole lot more!” That’s the title of this week’s sermon from I Peter 2:13-25.

Please be in the worship center for an on-time beginning at either 8:45 or 10:30.

Points of contact:

• Friday at 5:30 we are invited by our Grace Alive Ministries to a SSD Meal! (soup/sandwich/dessert). Tickets are available through Sunday.
• The meal will be followed by a “classic gospel” concert provided by the Blackwood Gospel Quartet at 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday evening, the 27th, is our monthly “family worship” experience. Click here for details.
• Please pray for our Thailand Team as they return on Monday!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

I find myself today in a land far colder to the gospel than the freezing weather outdoors. This evening I met with a man my age that, through a vision as well as the witness of Christians, has come to faith and been baptized. Now he faces the onslaught of a deep rejection from his family. Other than our team-mates here, he is the first Christian I have met in this community of 50 thousand. Please pray for unity among the Christians in this country and for those being attacked under spiritual oppression. Pray for God to break down the barriers that keep people in blindness!

On Saturday I will be heading back to Albania for some very important meetings. Again, please pray for unity among the believers with whom I will be meeting.

And pray for our church – your church! Pray for Pastor Brian as he continues our study of I Peter this Sunday. And pray that while God is showing us His kindness, our leaders will have godly wisdom in making decisions. We all need to be praying for one another!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

1. Don't try to read 20 pages this afternoon to "catch up", but instead just jump to John chapter 1 and start fresh. This is not about be able to check "reading the New Testament in 3 months" off your bucket list! It is about reading the Scriptures together so that we would see God's goodness and draw near to him.

2. Take the Apostle Paul's advice in Phillipians 3. He writes, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." So don't be discouraged, don't think about being behind, just press on toward the goal.

Answering the question, "Who is Jesus?"
This week we will read the Gospel of John. As we read, we will see phrase "I am ..." appear on Jesus lips over and over again (at least eight times in the Gospel of John!). These "I am" statements give us an unsurpassed picture of the glory and goodness of Jesus. So as we read this week, let's look for how Jesus describes himself. Here they are:

The "I am" Statments of Jesus
- I am the bread of life. (John 6)
- I am the light of the world. (John 8)
- Before Abraham was,  I am (John 8)
- I am the door of the sheep. (John 10)
- I am the good shepherd. (John 10)
- I am the resurrection and  the life. (John 11)
- I am  the way, and  the truth, and  the life. (John 14)
- I am the true vine. (John 15)

“I keep a close watch on this heart of mine,

I keep my eyes wide open all the time.

I keep the ends out for the tie that binds,

Because you're mine, I walk the line.”

This Sunday the message, entitled “Go Straight…I Dare You,” is a call to live the “Jesus-life,” an explanation why you’ll want to do so, and a reminder of how someone would know that you were, in fact, “going straight”. The text is I Peter 1: 13-25. Take a look. It is a call to “walk the line.”

By the way, to “Go Straight” requires more than just a song. See, “I’ll Walk the Line” was about Johnny’s first marriage, to Vivian Liberto; a marriage that was marred by numerous affairs, including one with June Carter. The good news… eventually Johnny Cash did walk the line - and so can we!

Let me remind you:

• The next Informational Meeting for Men's Mexico Mission Trip will be this Sunday (31st) at noon. It is scheduled to last 30 minutes. Check the link.
• Parent’s Night Out – February 13th. To make this experience meaningful for the children as well as their parents, some of us need to join the child-care team for the evening. Call 489-4200 or write to Lyn if you can help. (ljones@gracevine.com). Check the link for details.
• There are two more weeks to give to the Haitian Relief Fund. Present giving now exceeds $10,700! We are joining hands with Evangelical Free Churches across America in this effort. Click and read the blog about how our gifts are being used.
• Please pray for me as I travel February 1st – 13th to assist our sister churches in Albania and Macedonia. The picture below is from last March. A bit nippy, it was!

From time to time - check out what else is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events. You can

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

"Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught." Luke 1:1-4 ESV

This book was written so that we would have "certainty about the things we have been taught." So what does that include? What themes is Luke trying to give us certainty on? We can probably guess at some of them. Certainty about the details of Jesus life. Certainty about the basics of the gospel. Certainty about the Resurrection. But the question I have is this, "What else is Luke trying to give us certainty about?" In his commentary on Luke, Dr. Walter Liefeld gives a helpful list of the themes found in this Gospel. Here is my summary of his list:

Themes in Luke
- Jesus
- The Glory of God
- The Cross
- Salvation
- The Holy Spirit
- Prayer
- Miracles
- Sense of destiny (the providence of God)
- Prophecy and fulfillment
- Israel and the people of God
- The End Times
- Discipleship and the Christian in the world
- The word of God

As you read through Luke this week, focus on two or three of these themes. Maybe you should pick themes that you are less "certain" about. For example, are you struggling with prayer? Ask God to use the Gospel of Luke to give you the certainty that prayer is real, significant, powerful and necessary for the Christian. Unclear about how Jesus' death on the cross relates to your life? Reading Luke with an eye on the cross will strengthen your understanding of how it relates to you. It will give you certainty.

So pick two or three and think about them as you go about your week. Look for them as you read. Pray that God would show you them in Luke. And pray that he would cause you to have the kind of certainty that translates into trust and action. And keep reading...don't give up!

Some of us are good at “faith.” But we aren’t exactly overjoyed by having to live by it. It seems so hard. Others seem to be having a smashing-good time, but life has little to do with abiding trust in God.

So, beginning this Sunday, here is where we launch our study in I Peter. Do we dare to be joyful when bold faith is required? Does God give us a smile when our world seems, at best, to be fuzzy? I hope that you will be in the worship center for an on-time worship departure at either 8:45 or 10:30. You know, God wants His people to worship and respond to His word together. So, I’ll see you then!

Also…

• This Saturday afternoon from 4:00 until about 5:30, I’d like to introduce some bold, joyous-faith people to you. They are Matt and Christy Taylor, who are home from Papua New Guinea for a short time. They will tell their story of beginning translation work for a remote tribe, building a house (chainsaw style), and raising children in a world few of us could imagine.
• Sunday noon is our Grace Alive regular luncheon. One of the elements of this joyous time together will be to show you our new church website and how to use it.
• And then, Sunday evening at 6:30 – I believe God wants us to pull together and to pray; to pray kingdom prayers with joyous faith! What does that mean? Well, we will pace ourselves in prayer for an hour using the Lord’s Prayer as our guide. We will spend time in Adoration, Alignment, and Asking. Please, please come and pray!
• Good news! Last week more than $9,500 was given to help the poorest and neediest in our hemisphere. The check is on its way to help in Haiti. If you wish to participate in this relief offering, you may do so thru the church the rest of this month.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

And does anyone want to say to God, “If it’s all right with you, would you mind if I skip my daily bread for today; I can go without; but how about rescuing those hundreds, maybe thousands of people still trapped in the Port-au-Prince rubble.” And don’t you just wonder how to pray when you see such dreadful tragedy?

I mean, Jesus said, “Pray like this when you pray…” And part of the prayer was a series of “Asks.” What are you asking? And what are you hearing as you listen for His answers?

Well this Sunday – let’s go at it. Let’s consider those three “asks” in Matthew 6: 11-13, as we talk about “Confident Prayer.” It might be good to do that, because some of us have about as much confidence in our praying as the Haitians have in their buildings.

One more thing - if God says, as you are praying, “Be ready to give an offering this weekend to help with the Haitian rescue and recovery” – will you be listening? Will you let your heart and hand respond? Our church needs more faithfulness in our giving to carry out our calling here – but can we say “no” to this?

A few other notes….

• CoffeeBreak – ladies – New groups begins this coming Thursday!
• Next Sunday evening at 6:30 – come for an hour of prayer…Kingdom praying… Bold, Radical, and Confident praying! Children, Students and those who don’t drive at night – along with all of the rest – let’s do it – Let’s Pray! There will be child care for the youngest. Come on Church – January 24th!!
• Join Grace – a class for those interested in knowing about Grace Bible Church, what we believe, and how to be involved takes place on the 31st. Lots of you should call and let us know you’d like to come to the evening gathering.
• From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Wondering what to look for in Mark? Here are a few things I expect to see as I read this week:

1. Discipleship is a major them in Mark. As I read through the Gospel of Mark this week, I am going to look for Mark to teach me about being a disciple of Jesus. About being fully-committed. About following Jesus, no matter where he leads me. Mark is full of calls to radical discipleship, good examples of discipleship, examples of "discipleship failure", unexpected disciples, warnings about discipleship, and more.

2. The link between faith and salvation is significant in Mark. As I read the gospel of Mark, I am going to look for ways that salvation is linked to faith in God.

3. I will continue to look for verses that fill my heart with joy and wonder. I will also keep looking for ways I can change to be more like Jesus.

In Christ,

Brian Farone
Associate Pastor of Adults and Families

The first week of our "Together Through the New Testament 2010" reading project is here. This week we will read through the whole Gospel of Matthew. If you want to read every day, you will need to read about Four chapters of Matthew each day.

Here is what I will be looking for as I read this week:

1. I will look for the ways Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament expectations for salvation. Matthew, perhaps more than any of the other Gospel accounts, presents Jesus as Israel's promised Messiah.

2. I will look for the meaning of the book as a whole. What is the "point" of this gospel? What is it trying to say to us as a book? Whenever I read any individual book of the Bible, I try to ask myself the question, "What is the main point of this whole book?"

3. I will look for specific passages that speak to me, and I will try to meditate on them as I go about my week.

4. I will look for ways I need to change.

5. I will look for the Triune God. For his love, faithfulness, justice, mercy and power. For his goodness. For what the apostle Paul calls "the kindness and severity of God" (Romans 11:22). In a word, I will look for his glory, the display of his wonderous attributes. And I will find these and more in the Gospel of Matthew, where the glory of God overflows.

In Christ,

Brian Farone

Don’t get it? Maybe you don’t know what it means to be radical. This Sunday, looking at the second and third petition of the Lord’s Prayer, we’ll discover what radical praying is all about. Come on; meet us for an on-time worship-filled take-off either at 8:45 or 10:30!

Reminders:

• This Sunday at noon, come to the gym for a luncheon annual meeting. We’ll receive a financial and building update along with affirming new leaders and making changes to our bylaws.
• Check Gracevine.com for start-up information for things like AWANA, Women’s Evening Edition, “Coffee Break” along with other event and ministry information.
• And spread the word to newer people at Grace – January 17th is our next “Meet Grace” luncheon where folks find out about leaders, ministries, and our mission!

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

and this:

“I saw more clearly than ever, that the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was, to have my soul happy in the Lord. The first thing to be concerned about was not, how much I might serve the Lord, how I might glorify the Lord; but how I might get my soul into a happy state, and how my inner man might be nourished.”

I am convinced that over the next three months God will use our time in his word to cause me to know him better, to help me obey him more, and to continue to make me “happy in Christ.” I am trusting he will do the same for you.

If you would like, click the “Comments” link below and share some of your reasons for reading through the New Testament in the coming months.

In Christ,

Brian Farone

click here to sign up for "Together Through the New Testament 2010"

Over the years, I’ve broken three bones, two in church, and the other with a bunch of rowdy motor-cyclists from this church. But the first, my little finger, was snapped as a giggling 12-year old friend and I were fooling around during one of those December 31st extravaganzas! I think my family went home early that night. No prayer.

So what about prayer? Does it make a difference? Why is it so hard to practice? Why not just leave everything up to God, anyway? Churches still have problems and so do its members. So why pray, December 31st or any other time?

As we start the New Year, I’d like us to approach those questions during a three-part sermon series we are calling, “Our Father.” We will be studying what should be called the “disciples’ prayer,” from Matthew 6: 8-15. Please come, expecting God to meet with us; please! And for an on-time takeoff into worship, be in the worship center with us at 8:45 or 10:30. How about this; try the seats towards the front. They’re pretty good! We will be celebrating the Lord’s Supper and at least one baptism during the 10:30 service. If you are ready to be baptized call me today!

Also…

• Ready to be “receptive to God’s word?” (A phrase from last week’s sermon). Pastor Brian has laid out a neat 3-month reading plan to move us through the New Testament. For more info go to: Bible reading plan.
• Our annual meeting is at noon on Sunday January 10th. Click here to find out about the meeting.
• One more… can you lend a hand on Monday between 10 am and 3 pm to help take down and store our fabulous Christmas decorations? Just come at 10 am. I don’t know that many hands make light work, but they do make quick work!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Little Cheyanne and her mother stopped by yesterday to give a wonderful Christmas gift to Charlotte and me. It was carefully wrapped in a red and white tea-towel and encircled with a festive ribbon. Mom spoke as, with both her little hands, Cheyenne tentatively held out the gift. “Cheyenne helped mix it,” her mother said, gently reminding me of her sweet daughter’s name. “She mixed it!” I always love things that take mixing! When I got home, and along with Charlotte, I opened the gift, we found a labeled “blend” of homemade Christmas pancake mix. I’m certain in the next two or three days I’ll be enjoying the tasty gift. All of which has me thinking… is it better to give or to receive? Most say, giving is the best. But I’m not so certain. And there must be a half-billion children who would side with me.

- Well, tonight, we’ll think about which is better, giving or receiving. And there will also be Carols to sing and a wonderful Christmas song by Rachelle Williams, a story for the children and of course the lighting of the candles as we sing “Silent Night, Holy Night”. Remember 4:30 or 6:00.

On Sunday – we will conclude our series on “Finding…” We call the message from the Christmas narrative, Finding Purpose – which, I contend, is a receivable gift as well! This Sunday we will go back to our “Classic” and “Contemporary” offering of services as well. I hope to see you all for an “on-time” take off at 8:45 or 10:30.

And Merry Christmas,

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

I will say, the other day I was grilling burgers; salmon and beef. Optional toppings included cheese and bacon; trimmings: lettuce and tomato. Where I still mess up is with timing. A couple of minutes too long on the “barbie” and, well, you know what that is like; bad news, anyway you cut it. Yes, timing is everything.

The Bible says that God demonstrated His love toward us… and he did it at just the right time! This Sunday in our “Finding Christmas” Series, we visit a wonderful text in Galatians 4: 4-7 where we learn what it means to be Finding Love. Our world is desperately in need of love… timely love, God’s love. I hope that you will be here and bring a friend with you. For an on-time departure… be in the worship center at 8:45 or 10:30.

A few other reminders:

• Saturday night at 5:30 Family Worship Night. Directions for the meal and other information can be found at the above link.
• Christmas Eve services are at 4:30 and 6:00.
• A six-week Men’s study called “Men’s Fraternity” meeting from 6:45-7:45 on Thursday mornings begins January 7th. Get more info from Tracy at 489-4200 or on the WEB.
• Spend a weekend a month, January – May, for college-level teaching to gain great insight in the foundational book of ROMANS. Sign up for our Central Coast Bible Institute class with Dr. Tom Halstead now. First class is January 8-9.

Did I make the team? I hope to tell you I did.

In a sermon entitled “Finding Hope,” this Sunday Pastor Brian will open God’s Word to help us and our friends see and understand the essence of hope for life and eternity. I’m looking forward to what God lays on Brian’s heart. I’m also looking forward to a wonderful expression of music and worship. So I’m preparing for an on-time departure at 8:45 and 10:30. Oh, and I hope to see you here!

Other reminders that you can access by clicking on the underlined text:

• Our “A Season of Joy” concerts will take place this Friday night at 7:00, Saturday at 6:00 and Sunday at 2:30 and 6:00. Come, but try not to come alone!
• Grace Alive is sponsoring “Sounds of Christmas” banquet on Sunday the 20th at the Madonna Inn. Do you have your tickets?
• One hour Family Christmas Eve services, Finding Jesus, will be celebrated at 4:30 and 6:00. And if you can help with child care one of those service times, please contact Lyn at ljones@gracevine.com or call 489-4200 and volunteer.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

You see, this was a season to cry for peace; not the first, mind you; and in my life-time, not the last. A troubled time it was, however. My high school classmates, some of them at least, had already been drafted; others enlisted. And across America, and really the world, students on hundreds of campuses were beginning to boil. “Peace,” they cried.

Did my generation find its “peace?” Not then, not now. And yours? Is your generation able to find or even manufacture this sought-after societal serenity? What do you think?

This Sunday, as we begin the Christmas season, I hope to help you and our friends examine two possible sources for peace, as we address the theme of “Finding Peace.” Jesus spoke of those “sources” in John 14:27. Take a look and join us for an “on-time departure,” at either the 8:45 or 10:30 service. We have a couple of other interesting things to share with you this Sunday as well as a time of celebrating communion.

What else…

• Thursday evening – for the women: Christmas with Cupcakes and Coffee 7:00 p.m.
• Friday night: Parent’s Night Out (5:30-8:30). We could use two or three more people to help us make this a great success for the 70 children we’ll be having in the buildings. Email Lynn at ljones@gracevine.com if you can help
• Tell Me The Story, is our children’s musical event for this Saturday evening, beginning at 7:00 p.m. And it will be GREAT!
• Sunday afternoon: 4:00 – 5:00 - The Alaska Expedition - In October eight from our children’s ministry leadership team gave a week serving the Lord in Alaska. You should hear about it! We’ll be in the Community Room.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

The neighborhood experienced some damage that day, mostly from limbs toppling from towering Pines and Oaks. The power had flickered and was gone. But, you know, all was well. And here’s one reason why: we were safely sitting in a well built house on a sure foundation.

This Sunday, as we conclude our study of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, we will see how important it was to Jesus that people like you and I build our lives on the sure foundation. I’ve called the message, “Built to Last.” Why is this issue so important? It is because storms hit us - all of us! And if we want to make it through these tough times, well, we need to build rightly!

Sunday, we’ll also be led in worship by a team of musicians that will be heading to Thailand in February to help with a ministry that rescues broken women who have been caught in a vicious cycle of survival.

 And I hope that many of you will join us this Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. for a time of corporate declaration of our thanks to God as we enter a few days of “Thanksgiving”. And yes, we’ll have pie afterwards. You ought to come! Bring the family. It will be a good time!

A few other reminders:

• This Sunday afternoon…. At the Arroyo Grande Bandstand – help our choir, “GraceFull” welcome the Christmas season in our community. They will be singing at 3:30 p.m. Bring your neighbors!
• On the 3rd at 7:00: This year’s Women’s Christmas Event is called “Christmas with Cupcakes and Coffee.” You and your friends will get the holiday season off to a good start by joining in on this fun time.
• On the 4th from 5:30-8:30: Parent’s Night Out. Let Lynn know that you’ll be dropping off your children for a fun time in our building while you do some shopping or have a great date-night.
• On the 5th at 7:00: “Tell Me the Story” – Children’s Choir Concert. Now this will be really fun!

 From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

This Sunday we consider the words of Jesus in Matthew 7: 13-23. It’s not about sailing. But it is a sermon about getting to the other side, into the Jesus-Kingdom and what is required to do so. Our study will reveal what most people don’t want to believe, that Jesus actually defined “Christian” for us. “Defining ‘Christian,’” begins with this – making sure we have the wind of the gospel! To find out more, and to express your worship of God together, let’s meet at 8:45 or 10:30 this Sunday morning!

A few other reminders:

• Church Work Morning – help us clean-up, paint-up, and spruce-up our campus. The time is 8:30 – 12:30 – this Saturday – November 21st.
• Michael Franzese formerly #18 on Fortune’s “50 Biggest Mafia Bosses” list, will be speaking at New Life Church this Sunday at 7:00. What a great place to bring a friend who needs to know Jesus!
• Join in a celebration of God’s presence and provision, next Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. as a prelude to our day of Thanksgiving!
• Christmas with Cupcakes and Coffee: This is our women’s Christmas event this year. It takes place on Thursday evening, December 3rd at 7:00
• Lastly, how is your “Finding” for Christmas coming along? Let me hear from you. Are you praying? Have you even begun to invite others to the services of celebration in December?

For any of the above, please “click” on them and find their link on our website!

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

How easy it is to judge others, to label, box and ship them from our lives. When Jesus said, “Do not judge” did he mean “Never?” If not, when is it appropriate to do so? And if it is alright, how do we go about it? Well, these are some of questions we'll hear about this Sunday as we study “Judge Not” from Matthew 7: 1-6.

• Finding… peace, hope, love, purpose and of course, JESUS. About 150 of us have joined our “Invite” team for the Christmas season. We are those who have made a list of people in our “circle of influence,” whom we are praying for and will, as God gives opportunity, invite at least one of them to at least one of our Christmas season services. Come this Sunday to learn more about being on the team, will you?
• AND… On Saturday the 21st, how about a couple of hours in the morning for to help beautify the campus? Click on All Church Work Day for details.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

What sets off your “worry-alarm”? SAT scores? Medical bills? Job security? Making a good impression? What is it?

This Sunday, as we study Matthew 6:25-34, we’ll consider what triggers worry and how, when it springs up, we can stop it cold! The message is entitled, “Why Worry?” I hope you’ll be here.

Last Sunday, if you were here, you received a card to remind you to pray for people you’d like to help find the kind of peace, hope, love and purpose that only Jesus can give. Still got the card? How about bringing it with you this Sunday? It all relates to our December series of messages called, “Finding.”

Here’s two other opportunities:

• Handling Grief Through the Holidays - Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM. You can find out about this event on our new website; www.gracevine.com
• All-Church Work Day - Saturday, November 21, 2009, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM. More information is found on the new website; www.gracevine.com

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

And, not knowing their personal stories, I wonder why they have gone to this incredible effort of giving. Does it matter? Does it matter why we give or serve or pray or, even “evangelize?” Isn’t it simply enough that we got the work done, that we made a difference? In other words isn’t the bottom line, the bottom line?

In a message I’m calling “Applause Worth Seeking,” this Sunday, along with the deeply important celebration of the Lord’s Supper, we will study those piercing “what’s your motivation” verses found in the first half of Matthew 6. I hope that you will come to one of the main services, at 8:45 or 10:30. If you have gotten out of the habit joining with your church family for worship, this would be a great Sunday to renew that pattern in your life. (And yes, with the change of your clocks this Saturday night, it is even easier)

And then…

• Still time to drop off candy for our Shine Parties and to pick up a yard sign! Drop by the “Children’s Window” at the church today or tomorrow.
• More of the Albania Story will be told this Sunday afternoon at 4:00 as Bill and Sharon Hart and Kyle and Linda Chappell fill us in on how they participated in God’s Kingdom work! We’ll meet in the Community Room.
• Join Grace class is this Sunday from 6 until 8 pm. Not a Grace Bible Church Member yet? Come and find out why and how you should join this incredible family of faith!
• First Tuesday’s Dinners (this Tuesday- 5-6 p.m.) sponsored by our AWANA ministries – This is a fun pre-AWANA
• Next Sunday at noon (November 8th) we will have a Veteran’s and Active Duty Recognition Luncheon at which time we will honor our service men and women. Bring a Vet! Details are on line or at a table in the foyer this Sunday.
• This is the last Sunday that the envelopes for Missionary Christmas gifts will be in the pews. Hope you are all participating in this meaningful expression of our love to those that serve outside our local church. 

And for further help and information, check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

The Bible teems with instruction and warning about things and how we handle them. Here’s one: “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” (Prov. 11:25) A bit later in the same book, “A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.”(Prov. 22:9) Usually we need to carefully reflect on our giving, it doesn’t always come naturally. Michael Phelps had already won five gold medals in the 2004 Athens Olympics. He seemed certain to secure one more in the 4 x 400 medley relay. Phelp’s teammate, Ian Crocker, had not been so fortunate. Fighting flu symptoms all week, Crocker would go home without a medal, Phelps ceded his position in the swim meet, giving Crocker a shot at the gold. Told of the gesture, Crocker nearly wept. “I’m speechless, it’s a huge gift that’s difficult to accept, makes me really want to succeed. And, with that motivation, Crocker helped his team shatter its own record, winning the gold.(Atlanta Journal Constitution, 8-21-04)

That story immediately brings to mind the verses in the New Testament: “Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:30-31) Generosity is a frame of mind. This condition ought to come with our conversion, and grow as we grow in Christ. On the wall of President Lyndon Johnson’s White House office hung a framed letter written by General Sam Houston(it had been written to the President’s great-grandfather more than 100 years earlier.) The President’s relative led Sam Houston to a knowledge of Christ as Savior, and it dramatically changed his life from being coarse and belligerent to peaceful and content. He was baptized and immediately after he offered to pay the local preacher half his salary. When asked why, he replied, “My pocketbook was baptized too.” (from The Law of Rewards, by Randy Alcorn, Tyndale, 2003)

We have clear instruction in the Bible about being generous. Remember this? “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” ( I Tim. 6:18) Generosity is Biblical and right-it is commendable and offers great help and benefit for all involved. Generosity will help offset one of the really dangerous conditions we all face in our day, that is materialism. Here is a great quote from John R. Stott and I urge you to read it carefully. “Comfort is dangerous, and we should constantly be re-examining our lifestyle. The New Testament is beautifully balanced on this. Paul avoids both extremes. Asceticism is a rejection of the good gifts of the good Creator. Its opposite is materialism—not just possessing material things, but becoming preoccupied with them. In between asceticism and materialism is simplicity, contentment, and generosity and these three virtues should mark all of us.  It is not a question of rules and regulations about our income, and how many rooms or cars we have. It’s these principles of simplicity, contentment and generosity over against covetousness, materialism, and asceticism that we have to apply to our living all the time. We need to give away what we are not using, because of we don’t use it, we don’t need it.” (CT Classic, Basic Stott, Christianity Today, 1-8-96)

Everything we have is His, be generous with it.

Well, this Sunday we come to the last two “You have heard it said,” statements of Jesus. And guess what he addresses? ““God’s Getting Even Plan!” Along with a great opportunity to gather for worship, we will also take a hard look at a hard text, Matthew 5: 38-48. You should come! Stay home and I’ll be tempted to try and get even! I call it the “Law of Joe.”

• This Saturday – 5:30-8:30 Family Worship Night with Meal: Theme – What’s in Your Treasure Chest? Please call Lynn or Vikki (489-4200) and let them know to plan on your coming.
• Pray and support our Shine expression on October 31st! (We really need more candy) Find out other ways to help by calling Betsy or Lynn at 489-4200.
• Support Ministerio Divino Salvador’s Men’s Ministry Fundraiser. Tickets ($8.00)will be on sale here this Sunday to help our Hispanic church raise funds to benefit families in need and the Men’s Ministry in Oceano! The product: an excellent take-out-BBQ-chicken meal with a “Mexican flare.” It will be “muy bueno!” The meals will be prepared and served on Saturday November 7th.
• Bring a “Vet” to lunch – November 8th! Get tickets this weekend as we prepare to honor those that have served and are serving our nation! The luncheon will be served after second service.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Me? I think I’d find more ways to drop myself into the life of the community; simply put, to engage! The good news is that there is still time to get at it. This Sunday pastor Ben Youngkin will guide us through a portion of Jesus’ Blueprint for Living – Matthew 6: 19-24. He’ll be helping us to honestly identify our true treasures! Along with guests from a dozen or more local ministries, he will help us consider what purpose and goals our lives serve. So, join us for our annual Local Ministry Fair this Sunday morning – remember 8:45 or 10:30.

• Men – come on – great BBQ-Throwdown-Chowdown this Saturday at 5:30! This is our fall “growing-together” event. Let’s be here! Whether you participate in our little grilling competition (more information from Tracy at 489-4200) or just come for the food and fellowship, (an amazing meaty-man’s meal will be served) it will be more than worth your time and the $7.00 cost.
• October 24th: Central Coast Walk-For-Life – 11:00 AM – meeting at the Mission College Prep Gymnasium in San Luis Obispo. For more information go to www.walkforlifecc.com
• October 24th is our monthly Family Worship Night. Meal included! 5:30-8:00. RSVP to Lynn at 489-4200.
• October 31st is “Shine” night. We have a totally new approach to “Halloween” this year. Please, still bring in candy and put it in the “shine” boxes in the foyer. AND – listen this Sunday for more information on a simple way to “bring Christ to our world.”
• Tuesdays – visit “Christianity Explored” with Pastor Joe in his church study. Time: 6:30 -8:00. This “interactive” is designed primarily for not-yet or newer followers of Jesus Christ. This week’s discussion: “Why did Jesus come?”
• Next Week -Please pray for Josh McDowell who will be speaking at the Tirana University in Albania. Thirty thousand students will have the opportunity to hear about Jesus from one of America’s great evangelists!
• AND – Missionary Christmas Offering – this is a great Sunday to participate! Envelopes are in the worship-center or at the information table.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

Top of Jesus’ morality list: don’t be inappropriately angry. (Have you ever found that on anyone else’s list?) But then, on His list, you will find the related issues of lust and adultery. “Heart issues,” said Jesus. And that is where we land this Sunday. What happens in Vegas may stay in Vegas, but what happens in the heart… hmm… often it doesn’t stay there for long.

I hope you will be with us Sunday as we continue our study of Blueprint for Living… Jesus Sermon on the Mount. Our passage is Matthew 5: 27-32; the message – “Forsaking All Others.”

Also…

• Saturday October 17th – Men’s BBQ -Throw Down & Chow Down event! Check it on the WEB or get tickets at the church this Sunday
• Sunday October 18th – The World Around Us… Local Ministry Fair takes place here. Learn about opportunities to “bring Christ to your world.”
• Sunday November 8th – Honor the Veterans Luncheon. Invite a Vet to lunch! Again, Details are on the WEB or at the church this Sunday.

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

This Sunday we will study Matthew 5: 21-26, considering a message I’ve called, “Murder, He Wrote.” What does the Bible say about “murder?” When was the last time, according to Jesus, you “murdered?” I hope you’ll be here for our third lesson in Blueprint for Living…Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount.

Also…

• Starting this Tuesday, I’ll be leading an interactive ten-week study discussing some basic common questions about the Christian faith. It is called “Christianity Explored,” and will meet in my study. Maybe you or someone you know would really benefit from this intro study. Let us know.
• Canceled: the Wednesday night Parenting Course due to begin Oct. 7th.
• This Sunday:
  
  FIRST HOUR BEGINS AT 8:45 - do your best to get here for the beginning! Remember, we will have “Classic” worship at 8:45 and “Contemporary” worship at 10:30.
  
  AND…let me invite you to come at 4:00-5:30 (childcare available) to hear an amazing story from one of our members, Dr. Jeff Lundeen; a story about what it means to him to be merciful to the world’s broken. Jeff has been doing surgery in Liberia on the Mercy ship!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

 And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar

See, unlike Barney, this man was able to preserve safety and stability in the airport and at the same time, win at least one citizen over to the idea that we are on the same team. To me – he was a bit of a “salt and light,”kind of guy, kind of like what Jesus spoke about in Matthew 5: 12-15. Kudos to the TSA of Seattle!

 We could use a few more “salt and light” people in our community too. In fact, I’d like to be such an agent of peace! How about you?

Let’s talk more about that on Sunday at 9:00 or 10:30 as we delve a little deeper in the “Blueprint for living – from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Oh, I hope you’ll be with us as we worship and study and grow together!

And these other opportunities:

· Charlotte is really excited about the upcoming Women’s Retreat. Its only two weeks away! This will be your last weekend to sign up.

· Ever wanted to help build a house? We are putting together our first Habitat for Humanity team to help with a house being built in our community the first weekend in October. Give Tiffany a call if you want in!

· Flu shots can be obtained here on Monday October 5th beginning at 10:00 am.

· New service times start on the 4th of October! Come to the Classic first service or theContemporary second service.

This week we start a new sermon series called "Blueprint For Living". It will focus on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 5-7. On Sunday, we will start the series by studying the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12. John Stott, one of my favorite writers on the Sermon on the Mount, wrote, "I have to confess that I myself have fallen under its spell, or rather under the spell of him who preached it. For the last seven years at least I have been constantly pondering it. In consequence, I have found my mind wrestling with its problems and my heart set on fire by the nobility of its ideals."

I, for one, intend to wrestle with Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. In the coming months, I am hoping that He will set my heart on fire to live as His sermon challenges me to live. I am also praying this for our church. I hope you will join us this week as we begin to study Jesus' powerful message in the Sermon on the Mount.

Here are a few things going on that I would like to remind you of:

- Internet Safety Seminar: How to protect your family from the pitfalls of the web. | Sunday Night, September 20th from 6:30 to 8:30 pm | Led by Paul Corr | This seminar will help you know how to protect you and your family from the pitfalls of the web. It is open to all ages, and Childcare will be provided.

- Christianity Explored: A Study for New Christians and Those Curious About Biblical Christianity | Led by Joe Bubar, Senior Pastor | 10 weeks | Tuesday evenings in the Fall | Starts October 6

- Evidence for the Truth of Christianity | 10 weeks | Starts Wednesday, September 23 | 10:30-Noon | Located in the Heritage Room in the Gym | |Led By Al Provost | Want to know how to defend your faith? Or maybe you have questions about the truth of the Christian Faith? Do you wonder if the Bible is reliable? Come to this 10 week class to get answers on this and many more challenges to the Christian faith.

- Family Worship Service | Saturday, September 26th | Dinner served at 5:30 | Family Friendly worship service following dinner

In Christ,
Brian Farone, Associate Pastor of Adults and Families

I’m convinced that it’s easier to make a friend than to keep one. Truthfully, I’m still trying to learn the lessons of friendship.

So that’s where I’d like to try to land this Sunday as we complete our short series on “Misplaced Keys of Relationships.” The focus this week, “Fostering Friendships…Essential for life.” We will look at a number of Proverbs. But you can start with Proverbs 18:24. Maybe you could invite a “friend” to church and to the picnic that follows. It’s going to be a great day!

From time to time - check out what is happening by going to www.gracevine.com, our church's WEB page. You'll find everything from downloadable sermons to the most recent schedule of events.

And I’ll see you in the pews!

Joe Bubar, Senior Pastor