Worship led by Ken Cowell
Philippians 2: 6-11 Who, being in the very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance of a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross! 9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
We often hear the phrase “What’s in a name?” The name is only important in relation to the worth and value of what or who it represents. For many years the name “Woolworths” was a famous brand name for hundreds of shops. But today it is forgotten, because it is no longer in business. The name “Jesus” was well-known when he was alive, but what happened after his death? In the book of Acts which gives the history of the church the phrase “the name of Jesus” is mentioned over 30 times and his name is still world-wide famous today. Why is that? Unlike Woolworths whose name disappeared after it closed for business, though Jesus died over 2000 years ago his name is still famous because He’s still in business. God raised him from the dead and exalted him on the throne at his right hand and Jesus is still at work today in the world. The day is also coming when every knee will bow and every tongue will confess, that “Jesus” is Lord. There is no name greater than Jesus.
298 Jesus name above all names 307 Jesus the name high over all
Acts 3:6-8 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have, I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. 8 He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. 16 By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.
In Hebrew culture a name not only expressed the identity of the person but the essence of the person’s being. Through this miracle it demonstrated that Jesus was not only alive but “Lord of all.” Peter’s faith in the name of Jesus released the power to heal this crippled man. We too as we pray in faith in Jesus’ name can see his power at work in many ways. Because the name of Jesus has such power it is a name worthy of praise.
468 Praise the name of Jesus 877 Jesus what a wonderful name
Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.
The power in the name of Jesus not only heals physically but also spiritually bringing salvation. The salvation he offers is all inclusive for “everyone who calls on his name will be saved.” We rejoice that his salvation included us. We must also remember he is an exclusive Saviour for there is no salvation apart from him.
545 There is power in the name of Jesus
1187 Before the throne of God above
Breaking of Bread
Romans 4: 25 He was delivered over to death for our sins and raised to life for our justification.
Why is Jesus the only who can save us? The bread and wine on the table clearly show us together with the verse we just read. Who delivered Jesus over to death? Some would suggest Judas. But he didn’t deliver him for our sins but for thirty pieces of silver. Wasn’t it the Jewish leaders who delivered him to the Roman authorities? Yes, but it wasn’t for sins, rather it was because Jesus was a threat to taking over their position of authority. But who delivered him over to death for our sins? The answer is found in Acts2:23 “This man was handed over to you by God’s set purpose and foreknowledge; and you with wicked men put him to death by nailing him to the cross.” It was God who delivered Jesus over to wicked men in order that Jesus by his death on the cross could take away our sins. But then by raising Jesus from the dead he declared his satisfaction with his sacrifice and in the place of our sin he gave us a righteous standing before God. Imagine we have a bank account in heaven filled with the debt of our sin that we could never repay. God in his grace sent Jesus to the cross to pay the debt for our sin and wipe our account clean. Then in the place of our debt he credits our account with the righteousness of Christ assuring us full acceptance into heaven. That’s why Jesus in the only one who can save us.
Notes of Brian Mills’ Message
Brian’s wife Ruth began by singing a song she had written entitled “Lord, there’s no-one like You”.
Brian noted, and we all read out loud, the verses of scripture on the walls of the church.
Brian went on to remind us that we are in God’s kingdom for a purpose.
Reading: Hebrews 1: 1 – 3
Yes, God spoke – and continues to speak today – the question for us is “What are we doing about what He says?”
Revelation 1: 9 – 19
John was so aware of the Spirit – he heard a loud voice, speaking about things yet to come.
Acts 9: 10 – 18
Ananias was used to hearing God, and to talking with Him.
Our problem is in discerning His voice – is it really God? Or is it my imagination running wild again? Remember that Satan also affects our thinking. Hearing God’s voice should not be difficult, as we are His children, and He is our Father.
Sometimes we just need to stop and say “Father, I love you.”
We call – He answers; He calls – what do we do? Our response should be like that of Ananias (v17) - he went in obedience to God’s call.
Prayer engages us with God, and it is the work of the Holy Spirit to help us – see Romans 8:26 – 28.
We need to spend quality time with the Lord, getting to know Him better.
Are we really hearing Hs voice? When He gives instructions, things do begin to happen.
Are we having conversations with God? Will we do what He says? Remember, God has got your number, and He DOES still speak loud and clear to his people.
NOTICES
- Wednesday (20th) at 10.30am – Coffee Morning
- Thursday (21st) at 11am at Downs Crematorium, Brighton – funeral service for Paul Forrest.
- Next Sunday – speaker Brian Legg
- Wednesday 27th July – 2pm – Ladies Afternoon Tea with Clare Skipper. ALL LADIES INVITED