tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83313897620209581832023-11-15T22:24:19.448+06:00International Baptist Church, Dar es SalaamWe are an International Church in Dar es Salaam. On a given Sunday people from many countries and several continents gather here to worship our Lord, Jesus Christ.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-12392214247550206672011-11-10T13:51:00.002+06:002011-11-10T13:52:06.903+06:00Christmas PartyWe are having a church wide Christmas Party on Friday December 15 at 6 PM. Stay TUned for more information.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-11878342424189566462011-01-30T00:44:00.002+06:002011-01-30T00:50:03.175+06:00Sunday Morning Bible Study ClassesNext Sunday February 6 we will resume our Sunday Morning Bible Study Classes at 9:30 AM. You may call it Bible Study, Sunday School or Bible Class, but whatever you call it and whatever your age there is a class for you. We have classes for Babies who are not yet walking, Toddlers to age 3, 4 to 6 Year olds, 7 to 9 Year olds, 10 to 13 year olds, youth aged 14 to 19 and two adult classes. Rita SOmgal our Bible Studies coordinator has been busy preparing rooms, reviewing literature, training teachers and getting everything ready for the Kickoff. We begin on Sunday February 6 so make plans to be in attendance. In the Sunday morning Worship time after Classes resume we will have a special service to commission and pray for our Class teachers. Don;t miss this Sunday, be there for the beginning of a great ministry.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-64209758060923746592011-01-30T00:39:00.003+06:002011-01-30T00:43:53.513+06:00Ladies Fellowship meetingsEvery Wednesday at 10 AM several of the Church ladies have been getting together for fellowship and to enjoy each other's company. The first few meetings have been at the church. Meetings for the month of February will be at The Bothma's home in Mikocheni B. The goal of the meetings is simply to spend some time together in a relaxed atmoshpere and fellowship. As time goes by the ladies will plan things like trips and bible studies, cooking lessons and other assorted pleasant pastimes. There is no registration and no cost simply show up and join in the fun. If you do not know how to get to the Bothma's home come by the church about 20 minutes before 10 AM and ride over with Marla or talk with Billie or Jackie at Church on Sunday for directions.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-40614293689379053982011-01-30T00:34:00.004+06:002011-01-30T00:38:13.776+06:00Valentines Party at Protea Hotel on Ocean DriveInternational Baptist Church is hosting a Valentines dinner Party for you and your sweetheart. Monday February 14 at 7:00 PM we will gather at the Protea Hotel on Ocean Drive for dinner together. The dining room limits us to 12 couples for the event and we are already halfway there. Space is truly limited so sign up soon. to register for the event either contact Dorothy Miller or visit the bulletin board in the church hallway and put your name on the sign up sheet posted there.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-81028327269080705652011-01-30T00:34:00.001+06:002011-01-30T00:34:10.871+06:00Sermon Notes 23 January 2011<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>Personal Worship Time<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The first step in personal worship is to draw near to God.<br /></p><p> Set a specific time and place<br /></p><p> Turn off distracting noises and clutter<br /></p><p> Keep it Hebrews 11:5-6<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>There are some things that will be of great assistance in worshipping God.<br /></p><p> Scripture, The best translation of the Bible is one that you can read and understand.<br /></p><p> The Psalms, there are 5 books of Psalms and 5 books of Moses.<br /></p><p> This is no coincidence<br /></p><p> Songs, memorize hymns or spiritual songs. Praise and Worship<br /></p><p> Choruses can also be very helpful.<br /></p><p> Spiritual writings<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Not being obedient to what we know to do is the biggest obstacle in living a life of worship. Hebrews 10:31<br /></p><p> You can't worship someone you do not love. I John 5:3<br /></p><p> Obedience is worship Romans 12:1-2<br /></p><p> Obedience applies to every person Eccles 12:9-14<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Our attitude towards our personal time with God will keep us from Worship<br /></p><p> Worship is listening as well as speaking Eccles 5:1-3<br /></p><p> Foolish speech on our part can bring trouble Eccles 5:4-7<br /></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-47202678983385180622011-01-30T00:32:00.001+06:002011-01-30T00:32:47.883+06:00Sermon Notes 16 January 2011<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>Worship in Spirit and Truth<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>The first function of the Church is worship.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>We worship God separately as individual members and corporately, as the gathered body of believers in Christ.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>We worship for a variety of reasons:<br /></p><p> Because God is worthy of our worship<br /></p><p> Because God wants us to Worship Him<br /></p><p> Because lost people need to see us worship Him<br /></p><p> Because we need to worship for our own well-being<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>We must be careful to guard against worshipping a false idea of God rather than almighty God Himself.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p><br /> </p><p>6 Processes in Worship Isaiah 6:1-13<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Revelation 6:1 knowing God as He makes Himself Known<br /></p><p>Adoration 6:3 admiring the beauty of God's "Otherness"<br /></p><p>Confession 6:5 seeing ourselves in light of God's perfection<br /></p><p>Proclamation 6:7 hearing what God has to say to us<br /></p><p>Dedication 6:8 faithful response to His demands<br /></p><p>Commission 6:9-13 God approves us and sends us to work</p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-78148133486817310852011-01-30T00:30:00.001+06:002011-01-30T00:30:54.520+06:00Sermon Notes 2 January 2011<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>Resolved<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>Anytime we encounter a "Therefore", we should stop and ask ourselves: What is it there for?<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>This "Therefore" summarizes Paul's expected response to the gospel<br /></p><p> Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice<br /></p><p> Be transformed by renewing your mind<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The result of this offering is that we will be able to test and approve the good pleasing and perfect will of God.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>There are some things that make this difficult.<br /></p><p> Our sinful Nature<br /></p><p> Other People<br /></p><p> Personal Pride<br /></p><p> Lack of Faith<br /></p><p><br /> </p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-7164215108763586342010-12-27T13:45:00.001+06:002010-12-27T13:45:16.257+06:00New Years Eve Watch Party<span xmlns=''><p>International Baptist Church of Tanzania will host a New Year's Eve Watch Party at 8 PM on 31 December. We will begin at 8 pm and continue until sometime after Midnight. Everyone and anyone is invited and welcome to attend. Shortly before midnight we will pray in the New Year. Earlier in the evening we will play games and have fellowship and snacks and refreshments. Bring your favorite game or games and light snacks. The church will provide coffee, tea, juice and water.<br /></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-32032042126990379562010-12-27T13:38:00.001+06:002010-12-27T13:38:26.045+06:00Sermon Notes 26 December 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>The Greatest Man who ever lived<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>Unique in His birth<br /></p><p> Born of a virgin Luke 1:26-33<br /></p><p> Son of God Luke 1:34-35<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Unique in His power<br /></p><p> Overcoming temptation Luke 4:1-3<br /></p><p> Casting out Demons Luke 4:31-37, 40-41<br /></p><p> Curing diseases Luke 4:38-39<br /></p><p> Performing miracles<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Unique in his teachings<br /></p><p> Parables of unequaled beauty Luke 10:30-37, 15:11-31<br /></p><p> Teaching with Authority<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Unique in His death<br /></p><p> Even the centurion noticed Luke 23:44:-49<br /></p><p> His death was only temporary Luke 24<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Yet more than a Man<br /></p><p> He forgave sins<br /></p><p> Received worship<br /></p><p> Demonstrated power over nature<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Claimed He<br /></p><p> Existed before Abraham<br /></p><p> Was one with the Father<br /></p><p> Was the giver of Eternal Life<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Luke's purpose was that we might know the certainty of the things about which we have been instructed. How can we answer the mystery of this singular individual?</p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-6215454994916115312010-12-27T13:37:00.001+06:002010-12-27T13:37:22.470+06:00Sermon Notes 19 December 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>That believing, you might live<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>There are competing views of successful life that meet at the stable in Bethlehem.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The first is the thieves and robbers. Theirs is the way of easy money, win the lottery, hit the jackpot make it rich off other people's money, labor, and intelligence.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Jesus' way is the way of life. It is very different from the way of the thieves and robbers.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Jesus had everything and left it all for us. Philippians 2:5-11<br /></p><p> Never stopped being God<br /></p><p> Emptied Himself of His rights as God<br /></p><p>He performed miracles to show His disciples who He was<br /></p><p> Changing water to wine John 2:1-12<br /></p><p> Healing an official's son John 4:46-54<br /></p><p> Healing the man at Bethesda John 5:1-14<br /></p><p> Feeding 5,000 with a single lunch John 6:1-15<br /></p><p> Walking on water John 6:16-21<br /></p><p> Healing a man born blind John 9<br /></p><p> Rising from the dead John 20<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Knowing Jesus is eternal life. John 17:3<br /></p><p>Eternal life is not heaven. Heaven is where Jesus is and a very real place.<br /></p><p>Eternal life begins when we receive Jesus by faith.<br /></p><p>Eternal life is God's Holy Spirit living in each of us because of our faith in Jesus Christ. Gal 2:20<br /></p><p>Eternal life prepares us for heaven. Because we have eternal life we have the opportunity to obey Jesus<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>What has He commanded us? Love one another.<br /></p><p>John 13:34-35 people will know us as His if we love one another<br /></p><p>I John 4:7-8 we fail to love because we do not know God.</p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-2281460563232322032010-12-27T13:36:00.001+06:002010-12-27T13:36:00.540+06:00Sermon Notes 12 December 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>Jesus: Promised Messiah<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>Jesus is the Messiah. He completely fulfills the Old Testament Prophecies<br /></p><p> Born of a virgin Isaiah 7:14 Matt 1:22-23<br /></p><p> Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2 Matt 2:1-6<br /></p><p> Grew up in Egypt Hosea 11:1 Matt 2:13-15<br /></p><p> Began His ministry in Capernaum Isaiah 9:1-2 Matt 4:12-17<br /></p><p> Healed their diseases Isaiah 53:4 Matt 8:14-17<br /></p><p> God's Messenger prepared his way Malachi 3:1 Matt 11:7-11<br /></p><p> God's Suffering Servant Isaiah 42:1-4 Matt 12:15-21<br /></p><p> Taught in Parables Psalm 78:2 Matt 13:34-35<br /></p><p> Triumphal entry on a colt Zech 9:9 Matt 21:1-5<br /></p><p> He is the rejected cornerstone Ps 118:22-23 Matt 21:42-44<br /></p><p> Disciples abandoned Him Zech 13:7 Matt 26:31-32<br /></p><p> Gambled for His garments Psalm 22:18 Matt 27:35<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Many of the Jewish leaders failed to recognize this while Jesus was performing His public ministry. Even John the Baptist nearly missed the significance of these predictions. Matt 11:1-6<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The messianic kingdom has been inaugurated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Matt 12:22-28<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>What will you make of Jesus of Nazareth? How do you respond to the evidence Matthew presents?<br /></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-85763679883534813262010-12-27T13:34:00.001+06:002010-12-27T13:34:56.320+06:00Sermon Notes 5 December 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>Jesus: The Mighty Son of God<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>Who does Mark say that Jesus Is?<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Jesus is the mighty Son of God who defeats the enemies of God and Man<br /></p><p> Satan and temptation Mark 1:12 - 13<br /></p><p> Overcomes demons Mark 1:23 - 26<br /></p><p> Illness and disability Mark 1:29 - 2:5<br /></p><p>Jesus was misunderstood and somewhat enigmatic<br /></p><p> Misunderstood by the religious leaders Mark 3:20 - 28<br /></p><p> By His own Disciples Mark 8:16 – 21<br /></p><p> By common people Mark 8:27 – 28<br /></p><p> Peter grasped the enigma Mark 8:29<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>What is the significance of recognizing who Jesus is?<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>For Jesus it meant<br /></p><p> Suffering<br /></p><p> Rejection<br /></p><p> Crucifixion<br /></p><p> Resurrection<br /></p><p>For the Apostles it meant<br /></p><p> Self-denial<br /></p><p> Persecution<br /></p><p> Losing their lives to find them in Him<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>How does God confirm who Jesus is?<br /></p><p> Triumphal entry with the common people<br /></p><p> Betrayal at the hands of two of his apostles<br /></p><p> Rejection and treachery at the hands of the religious leaders<br /></p><p> Crucifixion<br /></p><p> Resurrection<br /></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-30929971769906480562010-12-02T21:36:00.001+06:002010-12-02T21:36:37.995+06:00Sermon Notes 21-November 2010<span xmlns=''><p>Joy in the Journey<br /></p><p>Luke 5:27-38<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The Source of our Joy<br /></p><p> Repentance<br /></p><p> Obedient Discipleship<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The situation of our Joy<br /></p><p> Not in isolated separation from the world<br /></p><p> In the midst of sinners and other people just like us<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The circumstances of our Joy<br /></p><p> Joy is a fruit of the Spirit living in us Gal 5:22-23<br /></p><p> Spirit of Adoption where we call God our Father<br /></p><p> Gal 4:6, Rom 8:15<br /></p><p> Joy of hope that God works all things for good for us Rom 8:28<br /></p><p> Joy in the tribulations which produce Character<br /></p><p> And confirm our hope Rom 5:3<br /></p><p> Joy of experiencing liberty over Law Gal 4:5, Rom 8:1-2<br /></p><p> Joy of Wedlock to our soul's true husband Rom 7:1-4<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The rejection of our Joy<br /></p><p> Many people will prefer the routine of legalism and the false <br /></p><p> Comfort it brings to the challenge of following God on the <br /></p><p> Trail of life.</p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-44854058450310762172010-12-01T14:02:00.001+06:002010-12-01T14:02:23.348+06:00Sermon Notes 28 November 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Are You Ready?<br /></span></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>This parable is set in the midst of Jesus long discourse on the end times. Jesus is teaching His disciples to be prepared for the certainty of His return from heaven.<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>This parable illustrates the foolishness of some Christians in preparing to meet Christ.<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>The virgins accompanied the bride to the bridegroom's home.<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>They displayed their foolishness in two ways during the ceremony.<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'> Not bringing enough oil to anticipate the groom's delay<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'> Going in search of oil at midnight<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>The defining characteristics of a fool<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Thoughtlessness<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'> Wasting the time we have been allowed to mature<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Superficiality<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'> Being more concerned about the oil than attending the bride<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>The defining characteristics of wisdom<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Forethought<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Luke 6:46-49 the two builders<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Sincerity<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>James 1:22-25<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>The attributes of wisdom James 3:13-18<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Peace-Loving<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Considerate<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Full of Mercy and good fruit<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Impartial<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-family:Bookman Old Style'>Sincere<br /></span></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-2204205274655458012010-11-17T18:07:00.003+06:002010-11-17T18:12:57.198+06:00Small group bible studies underwayThe small group Bible Studies meeting during the week are underway. Two groups are using the Design for Discipleship Series from Navpress. The group meeting at Francois and Katie Martins' house in Mikocheni will begin Book Two this week. Pastor Eric is the leader of this group but leadership duties rotate and are shared by various members of the group. Cost Mrema leads the group that meets an Chanan School in Mbezi Tank Bovu. They are also using Design for Discipleship. <br />The group that meets in Oyster Bay at Matt and Mary Stephenson's home will begin this week instead of last week as reported earlier on this Blog. This group will examine Romans verse by verse as the meet. They will meet every other Thursday at 6 PM. For more information on any of these groups, contact the leaders or the host for the particular group you are interested in or comment to this blog.<br /><br />Blessings,<br />Pastor EricInternational Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-11449166212860952602010-11-17T17:54:00.003+06:002010-11-17T18:06:29.844+06:00Sermon Notes 14 November 2010Sins Against Grace<br /><br />One Parable with two applications<br />Most obviously allegorical of Matthews parables<br /> King is God,the Father<br /> The Son is Jesus Christ<br /> The Bride is the church<br /> The Wedding feast is the Messianic banquet<br /> Servants of the first announcement were the prophets up to John<br /> Servants of the second announcement were the Apostles<br /> The first group of invitees was Israel of the Old Testament<br /> The second group of invitees is every tribe and tongue of earth<br /> The wedding gown is the faithful life expected of a disciple<br /><br />What then is the meaning of the parable?<br /><br />The parable warns against two wicked responses to the grace of God so richly poured out on us in Christ. Together these responses prove the point of Jesus summary statement; "Many are called, few are chosen."<br /><br />The first response is to despise the grace of God by ignoring it or refusing to accept it when it is offered to us. This was the sin of the first group of invited guests. Far too often this sin leads to a rejection which takes the form of violence.<br /><br />The second response is to despise God's grace by refusing to deal with the sin God's Spirit reveals in our lives. This is the sin of Romans Chapter 6.<br /><br />The balanced approach is grateful obedience to Christ which produces a life of Holiness and Love.<br /><br />I Peter 1:22-25<br />Galatians 5:2-6International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-59998176780716471942010-11-11T12:28:00.002+06:002010-11-11T12:41:37.074+06:00New Bible Study Starts TonightThere is a new Bible Study starting tonight at 6:00 pm in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Oyster bay</span>. Matt and Mary Stephenson will be hosting an exegetical Study of Paul's Epistle to the Romans. This is the first night for this new exciting study. <br />Paul wrote this epistle in anticipation of a trip to Rome. The church at Rome was started by <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">believing</span> Jews who were converted to the Gospel following Peter's sermon at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured out. Paul wrote this epistle as a way of introducing himself and setting forth the gospel he preached to the church at Rome. It is a brilliant defense and explanation of the Gospel of salvation by grace. <br />Throughout history, Romans has been an influential book not only within the church but in society as a whole. Romans 1:17 (Look it up) was the spark on which Martin Luther built the fire that became the protestant reformation. For many years Law schools used the first 8 chapters of Romans as an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">instructional</span> example of logic and defending a point.<br />This study begins at 6 pm tonight at Matt and Mary <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Stephenson's</span> house in <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">Oyster bay</span>. For directions you may call the church at 0222 774 423 (Land line) or 0777 180 097.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-62211711022681047472010-11-10T16:42:00.002+06:002010-11-10T16:45:02.351+06:00Family Fun Day This Sunday 14 NovemberJust a reminder that we have rescheduled our Family Fun Day for this Sunday 14 November 2010. We were originally scheduled for Sunday 31 October but conflicted with Election Day here in Dar es Salaam and elected to reschedule for a later date. Thanks for electing to worship with us and choosing to come this Sunday for Family Fun and Fellowship. Bring your favorite food for the potluck and a game or two to play together for the fellowship to follow. If the last event in August is any indicator we should all have a wonderful time.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-44416543635765291972010-11-10T16:32:00.002+06:002010-11-10T16:41:45.430+06:00Sermon Notes 7 November 2010The Pharisee, The Sinner and the Savior<br /><br />The scene is a banquet at the house of Simon, A Pharisee.<br /><br /> A Woman interrupts the banquet, where Jesus is a guest.<br /> Simon, the host, misjudges the woman and her actions.<br /> Jesus presents His host with a question in the form of a parable.<br /> The host judges, correctly but reluctantly.<br /> Jesus explains the womans actions.<br /><br />The Pharisee, the Sinner, and the Savior<br /><br />How should Simon (and by extension, me and thee) have responded to this parable?<br /><br /> "I love little because I have been forgiven little. I have been forgiven little beause I have not fully realized the grace of God towards me and received His forgiveness."<br /><br />THe title of this sermon is deceptive because of the three main characters in the storyonly Jesus was not a sinner.<br />Simon, the pharisee, was a sinner inside the law, acceptable to most people.<br />The woman who intruded was a sinner outside the law, unacceptable to most people.<br />Repentance is harder for those who need to repent but don't know it or will not acknowledge it.<br /><br />Whenever Jesus confronts our sinfulness our response is either faith or offense. One of us must be proven wrong, either Jesus or me. <br />He is either a rue, offensive man who points out my flaws and demands that I stop that behavior, or He is God's agent sent to redeem me through placing faith in Him and finding forgiveness in His response.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-52730533828158666722010-11-10T16:26:00.002+06:002010-11-10T16:32:40.194+06:00Sermon NOtes 31 October 2010The Great Banquet<br /><br />This pparable is beautifully elegant in its simplicity.<br /><br />There is no complicated bckground to unravel. there is a rich depth in the background setting of the parable, but it is not necessary to understand any of the cultural settings to grasp the full meaning of the story.<br />One of the men dining with Jesus is overcome with the exuberance at the privilege of sharing the banquet with none other than Jesus of Nazareth.<br /><br />In response to his comment Jesus tells a poem, seven stanzas long, that will be repeaed and cherished for the rest of history.<br /><br />It contains the greatest news the world has ever heard at any time and in any place.<br /><br />It also contains the direst warning ever announced to humanity.<br /><br />The Good news: all who choose to attend the messianic banquet are welcome.<br /><br />The warning: You are invited but it is possible so greatly to offend the host that you will be excluded from the banquet.<br /><br />Each of the invited guests in the parable gave a flimsy excuse and offended the host, Jesus Christ Himself. In doing so they earned an exclusion from the guest list.<br /><br />What escuse will you allow to keep you from joining in this feast?International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-27596927933069965532010-10-29T00:30:00.001+06:002010-10-29T00:30:59.390+06:00Sermon Notes 24 October, 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>Legalistic Fidelity or Heartfelt Compassion<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Setting of the Parable<br /></p><p> An expert's question<br /></p><p> His dialogue with Jesus<br /></p><p> A final task to Accomplish<br /></p><p> Jesus' stunning reversal of the discussion<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Structure of the Parable<br /></p><p>First Three visitors Come, Do, and Go<br /></p><p> Robbers did what robbers are wont to do<br /></p><p> Priest was not obligated to do good to a Samaritan who was not<br /></p><p> His neighbor and had no way of knowing this man was not<br /></p><p> a Samaritan<br /></p><p> Levite would have known the priest was ahead of him and had<br /></p><p> Done nothing so he was justified<br /></p><p>Final Visitor Come, Do, and Do<br /></p><p> Not "The delegation of Israel" the expert would have expected<br /></p><p> A heretic and a hated person<br /></p><p> He is moved with compassion for the injured traveler<br /></p><p> Cares for his wounds<br /></p><p> Becomes a servant to him<br /></p><p> Risks his own life to get the stranger to safety<br /></p><p> Provides for the expenses of his care<br /></p><p> Provides for him to get out of town after his recovery<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>Significance of the parable<br /></p><p>En ethic based on legalism is inadequate in the face of human suffering<br /></p><p>Our discipleship must lead to merciful, compassionate love<br /></p><p>Any attempt to justify ourselves is doomed to failure<br /></p><p>Failing to do good when called for is as sinful as doing bad<br /></p><p>Jesus reminds us that we must become a neighbor to anyone in need.<br /></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-57325737520385702732010-10-21T09:46:00.002+06:002010-10-21T09:52:04.579+06:00Family Day UpdateSunday 31 October, 2010 is also Election day here in Tanzania. In order to allow our Members from Tanzania the opportunity to participate in the elections we will postpone our next regularly scheduled Family Day. The Following Sunday, 7 November is our Monthly congregational bsiness meeting. Family Day will be celebrated on 14 November instead of the fifth Sunday in October. We will have our usual bitings and tea, coffee and juice on 31 October and will observe and celbrate the Lord's Supper on 31 October. The only change to the schedule is the date of our next Family Day.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-6295869660068803012010-10-21T09:13:00.001+06:002010-10-21T09:13:24.363+06:00Sermon Notes 17-10-2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'>The Shrewd Manager<br /></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p>Some Basic questions to proper understanding<br /></p><p> Who is the Master in Verse 8?<br /></p><p> Where does the parable end and Jesus commentary begin?<br /></p><p> Why would anyone praise a person who stole from them?<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>What did this shrewd manager actually do?<br /></p><p> Cancel his extortion in collecting the account?<br /></p><p> Actually give away the Master's money?<br /></p><p> Most likely he did a little of both.<br /></p><p> Dishonest may refer only to his general character and not<br /></p><p> the specific action for which his master praised him.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p><br /> </p><p>What does this say about how we should use Money?<br /></p><p>All the resources we have should be viewed as a stewardship from God. This includes not only money but time, abilities, and skills as well.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>The purpose of our stewardship is to make friends in heaven so they will receive us.<br /></p><p><br /> </p><p>John Wesley's advice on money<br /></p><p> Earn all you can,<br /></p><p> Save all you can,<br /></p><p> Give all you can.<br /></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-6820762783048038502010-10-11T17:05:00.001+06:002010-10-11T17:05:35.999+06:00Sermon Notes 10 October 2010<span xmlns=''><p style='text-align: center'><span style='font-size:10pt'>The Lost Sons<br /></span></p><p style='text-align: center'><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>The prodigal son tells of a father who lost two sons<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> His younger son wished his father was dead<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> The older agreed with the younger brother's sentiment<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>In first century Palestinian peasant culture the younger son's request was unheard of. Kenneth E Bailey, in the book "Poet and Peasant" writes about the significance of a son asking for his inheritance while the father is still alive. "For over 15 years I have been asking people from all walks of life from Morocco to India and from Turkey to the Sudan about the implications of a son's request for his inheritance while the father is sill living. The answer has almost always been emphatically the same. The conversation runs as follows.<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>Has anyone ever made such a request in your village?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>Never<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>Could anyone ever make such a request?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>Impossible<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>If anyone ever did, what would happen?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>The father would beat him, of course!<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>Why?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>The request means – he wants his father to die."<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>By his actions the younger son cuts his ties with<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> His father by wishing him dead<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> His brother by refusing to farm with him after their father's death<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>` His village by shaming his family and violating customs<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>What does it mean to be lost?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Like the sheep separated from the shepherd's protection<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Like the coin unavailable for use in the kingdom<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Like the prodigal lost contact with the father<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Like the older son self righteous and unable to rejoice in the <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Repentance of one loved by God<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>What does the prodigal think he did wrong?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> He lost the money his father had a legal right to expect his son to <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Use to care for him in his old age.<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>He plans to become a hired servant in his father's employ<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Face the village and their hatred of him<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Pay back what he lost and provide for his father<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Give up any chance of restored relationship with his brother<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>What is the father's idea of his son's return?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> He restores him to full stature as a son<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> He provides at his own expense everything necessary to restore<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> His son to right relationship with everyone involved<br /></span></p><p><br /> </p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'>What does it mean to repent?<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Not trying to earn your way back into good favor<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> Not merely recognizing what you have done wrong<br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> "Repentance turns out to be the capacity to forgo pride and <br /></span></p><p><span style='font-size:10pt'> accept graciousness." DO Via</span></p></span>International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8331389762020958183.post-65795344703830386762010-10-08T21:28:00.002+06:002010-10-08T21:53:42.005+06:00Changes to the Sunday Morning RoutineBeginning this Sunday and continuing through the month of October we will vary our Sunday morning routine slightly. We will not have Sunday Morning bible Study classes at 9:30 am for either adults or children. Morning Worship will start at 10:30 just as before. We will still have Children's worship just as we have been doing. There will be a slight change however in how this is done.<br />Children 3 years of age and younger will be in a class of their own with Lucy <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Wambugu</span> teaching them. They <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">will</span> be in their class during the entire worship service.<br /><br />Children will still be dismissed for Children's worship after the offering.<br /><br />Children from 4 to 9 years of age will go to one class and have a bible study and worship time just as they have been doing. This week they will have a lesson on creation and God's love . Marla <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Hiatt</span> and Arthur Robert will lead this section of Children's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">worship</span>.<br />Youth from 10 to 13 years of age will go their own Children's worship section led by Audrey <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Yohanni</span>. This is a departure from our regular routine.<br /><br />We are trying this new routine for one month hoping to improve the way we conduct our ministry with Children. Our Sunday school teachers have been doing a great job with the children God has brought to their classes. We have had some difficulty in securing enough teachers to adequately provide for the needs of the children God has sent our way.<br /><br />Ministering to children in the bible study program of the church may look like simple fun and games, in reality it is anything but. Preschool and primary aged children may not be able to discuss the theological concepts that are the mainstay of their parent's <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">sunday</span> school but their classes are critical for a variety of reasons.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Minsitry</span> to children is ministry to parents. God has entrusted these children to the care and nurture of their parents or guardians. They are responsible for teaching them the things of God. Sunday School teachers work with parents in teaching critical concepts to their children. Concepts such as the trustworthiness of scriptures, God's love for them, that church members love them and want them to know God.<br /><br />Sunday school teachers and workers also teach important information about the scriptures to their students. Think back to when you were in a children's Sunday school class. You learned the books of the Bible. You heard wonderful stories like Noah's ark, Daniel in the Lion's den and Jesus' miracles. You learned Bible Verses like John 3:16 and the 23rd Psalm. Important promises and announcements of Jesus love for you. Children's Sunday School workers teach a great deal of information that changes the lives of their students and sets the foundation for a lifetime of knowing and loving Jesus. It is imperative that we get this right.<br /><br />In order to insure that we "get this right" we are going to focus on delivering a quality Children's worship experience. Our goal is for parents to feel comfortable entrusting their children to our teachers and the program we have developed. We also want to insure that children learn in an age appropriate manner the great truths of the faith that will shape their adult life.<br /><br />Please be in prayer for our teachers and classes as they and we strive to provide quality bible instruction and discipleship for the children God has given us.International Baptist Churchhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17813300639842006176noreply@blogger.com0