February 24, 2008 by PastorDave.

#303, Love Your Enemies, Pastor David McIntosh, Sunday, 02-24-2008

Text: Matthew 5:44

INTRODUCTION

1. February, traditionally the month of love.
2. We have looked at loving the Lord, loving our neighbors, loving the lost and today is probably the most difficult love to activate in our lives….
3. To prepare us for Jesus’ Words today allow me to set the stage.
4. Do you ever wonder why God allows so many people to annoy, irritate, and provoke us?
5. Some understanding may come from the comparison that God makes between believers and stones that need to be perfectly cut so that they fit together, side by side.
6. Ephesians 2:19, 21,22 – “You are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s household…In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to becoming a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.
7. The phrase “being built together” can also be read, “Fitly framed together.”
8. It means an action that happens to us over and over again to change us so that we fit side by side perfectly no filler, cement, or glue.
9. A great illustration of this is found in 1 Kings 5 & 6, where King Solomon is building the Temple of God.
10. 1 Kings 5:15 – “Solomon had…80,000 stonecutters. (show stonewall fitting together)
11. Each stone was so perfectly prepared that it needed no further hewing or cutting after it was put in place for the Temple, it was finally “cut perfect” for its place.
12. Now, if we can view those that hurt us or are hostile towards us as God’s stone cutters (hewers) we can be ready for the next group of people Jesus commands us to love.
13. Matthew 5:44 – “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”
14. Immediate encouragement: 1 Peter 5:10 – “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”

WELCOME GOD’S “STONECUTTERS”

1. A reason Jesus commands us to love our enemies is that He has higher purposes for them than to just make our lives miserable.
2. The challenge with God’s “Stone Cutters” who “chip away” at us is that they are usually forceful, aggressive.
3. So our response is to completely close our spiritual ears to the message God is trying to send to us through them.
4. Often the message from God has to do with finding a better “balance” in our life.
5. We often live our Christian lives out of “balance” with the truth of God’s Word. We pick something and plow people over with it. Even though it’s truth, its truth out of balance; and truth out of balance leads to heresy. (religious opinion thought true)
6. God may be using enemies to send you a message, are you listening?

LEARN TO PROTECT YOURSELF

1. The story is told of a missionary who was making his way through the jungles of Africa, suddenly he felt a bite and looking down he saw a very poisonous snake.
2. Within minutes he would have great pain, swelling, and sickness.
3. But he was prepared for the attack, he reached into his bag and using an electrical shock he neutralized the venom.
4. When an enemy curses us with bitter, harsh words, it is like a snake bite to our souls. These venomous words will do deadly work on us emotionally unless we can quickly neutralize the venom.
5. We can do this by a heart response of blessing. (Bless those that curse you)
6. Blessing can be a prayer where you ask the Lord to fill that person with the qualities you discern they are lacking. (Patience, wisdom, understanding, kindness etc…)
7. “Cursing our enemies is like drinking poison and waiting for our enemies to die.”
8. I pray God give each of us the grace to neutralize venomous words by learning to bless those that curse us.

CLASSIFY YOUR ENEMIES

1. King David was traveling one day and a man was cursing him from a distant hill.
2. 1 Samuel 16:10-12 – “If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, curse David, who can ask why do you do this…Leave him alone; let him curse, for the Lord has told him too. It may be that the Lord will see my distress and repay me with good for the curse I am receiving today.”
3. What an incredible response by the King. It shows us the first classification of enemy: ones we make because of our own failures.
4. Proverbs 16:7 – “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.”
5. Maybe with them God wants us to seek forgiveness and reconciliation.
6. The second classification is those who are against God and his purposes. They attack us because of our relationship with the Lord
7. Psalm 56:9 – “When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.”
8. We need to humble ourselves and cry out to the Lord for His Spirit to work.
9. It is healthy to recognize if the enemies are “mine” or “God’s.”

BE MORE POWERFUL THAN YOUR ENEMIES

1. Proverbs 29:25 – “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.”
2. Hebrews 13:6 – “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”
3. When we fear man more than God we are spiritually crippled and our enemies become powerful off of our fear.
4. We fear what people will think about us, what will happen to us, losing our lifestyles, friends, we fear punishment, fear losing our lives.
5. 1 John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
6. Our fear of God has to take over our fear of man.
7. God’s perfect love for us will cast out unhealthy fear!
8. I know this story is extreme but nevertheless it is true (Pastor in Romania)
9. Matthew 10:28 – “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who destroy both soul and body in hell.”
10. We become more powerful than our enemies when we let the perfect love of God drive out the fleshly fears that live in us.

CLOSING

1. Jesus commanded us in Matt. 5:44 to love our enemies bless them that curse you.”
2. Who are the people in your life that you know in your heart you have an “enemy” relationship with?
3. I want all of us to close this service in an immediate act of obedience to Matt. 5:44.
4. Lift our hands, Lord I ask you to bless ___________________. Help me to do good to them and reveal your eternal love and plan for their life in Jesus Name Amen.

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February 24, 2008 by PastorDave.

Beginning Sunday, March 2, 2008 ~ from 10:10-10:50 AM

WELCOME to the Family

• Taught by Pastor Mark
• This course will meet in Pastor Mark’s office.
• In this course you will be introduced to the purposes and vision of Leominster Assembly of God as well as the practices and policies of the church. This course is for anyone interested in becoming a member of our church and is a requirement for membership. Class size is limited to 15.

Drawing Closer to God

• Taught by Pastor Bob
• This course will meet in the Triangle Room next to the sanctuary.
• This class is for all new Christians as well as any Christian who wants to draw closer to God. God says that if we draw close to Him, He will draw close to us. This is your chance to become the dynamic, joyful disciple of Christ that you have always wanted to be. This class is a requirement for membership.

Family Devotions

• Taught by Pastor Dave & Tatiana
• This class will meet at the Johnny Appleseed Elementary School across the street from the church.
• The way our sons and daughters learn to choose God’s best for their lives is when they are taught and trained at home! Come and learn how to begin family devotions in your house.

The Gospel in Romans and Galatians

• Taught by Harry Marshall
• This classes will meet at the Johnny Appleseed Elementary School across the street from the church.
• Find out what the Books of Romans and Galatians have to say about the life-changing power of God proclaimed in the gospel. You will be encouraged to live your everyday life in the liberty of God’s righteousness by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Biblical Prophecies, Israel, and the Church

• Taught by Rev. Fumio Taku
• This classes will meet at the Johnny Appleseed Elementary School across the street from the church.
• This class offers an in-depth study of biblical prophecies as seen in Genesis through Revelation and will give you a better understanding of God’s end-time prophetic plans and key verses. There will also be a focus on God’s love for Israel and His wake-up call to the Church for prayer, humility, and faith.

Secrets to the Ultimate Marriage

The seminar will begin Tuesday, March 25, at 6:30 PM and will continue each Tuesday through May 20.

• A seminar designed to minister to the needs of every marriage
• This 9-week video series will change your marriage forever!
• Pastor Dave and Tatiana McIntosh will be the facilitators.
• The seminar will be held at Rick and Joan DiMarzio’s house in Leominster (directions will be provided).
• The price of the seminar is $40 per couple, which includes two workbooks, a home study guide and refreshments.
• To register, please sign up at the Welcome Center.
• For more information or if you have questions, call Pastor Dave at the church office at 978-534-1190.
• A brochure with further information is available at the Welcome Center.

Rediscovering Joy in Your Marriage

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February 24, 2008 by admin.

JOIN US TODAY

• WORSHIP and THE WORD at 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM
  Nursery, 4s and 5s, Kids 4 Christ
  Pastor Dave McIntosh, “Love Your Enemies,” Matthew 5:44
• CHRISTIAN EDUCATION at 10:00 AM
  Classes for all ages—here and at Johnny Appleseed School
• GOSPEL EXPLOSION SERVICE at 6:30 PM
  Enjoy this powerful service with Master’s Commission! Don’t forget to invite your unsaved family and friends.
• CHILDREN’S PLAY REHEARSAL at 6:30 PM in the Youth Chapel

JOIN US THIS WEEK

• MONDAY 8:30 AM—Hannah Prayer Group (Trainques)
  7:00 PM—Prayer
• TUESDAY 9:30 AM—Coffee Break Women’s Bible Study
  6:30 PM—ESL (English for All Nations)
  7:00 PM—Oh Lord, What is Your Vision for My Life?
  7:30 PM—Christian 12 Step
• WEDNESDAY 5:45 PM—A.L.I.V.E. Homeschoolers Prayer
  6:30 PM—FAMILY NIGHT
  Rainbows (girls & boys, 3 up to K)
  Girls Ministries (grades K-8)
  Royal Rangers (boys’ clubs, K-12)
  Impact Student Ministries
  Effective Personal Soul Winning
  Adult Bible Study (L.A.B.I.)—Missionaries Joe and Alice Lear
• SATURDAY 12:00 PM—Ministry of Joy Adult Fellowship
  7:00 PM—All-Church Prayer

ANNOUNCING

• HANNAH PRAYER GROUP for women will meet every other Monday, 8:30-9:30 AM, beginning tomorrow, February 25, at the home of Rita Trainque (19 Buono Avenue, Leominster). Please call her for directions.
• WOMEN’S MINISTRIES COFFEE BREAK begins this Tuesday, February 26, at 9:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Please stop by the WMs table in the foyer to sign up. Cost for the book is $14.00.
• THE WOMEN’S SPRING RETREAT deposit of $50 is due March 2. Stop by the WMs table to sign up or for more information.
• MINISTRY OF JOY ADULT FELLOWSHIP meets this Saturday, March 1, 12:00-2:30 PM, in the Fellowship Hall. You’ll enjoy great music with Roger and Anne Lavoie, great fellowship, and great food (please bring a dish if you plan to eat lunch with the group)! If you have any questions, please call Ray or Rita Trainque.
• WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD to Teacher/Evangelist Wes Daughenbaugh being with us Sunday through Wednesday, March 2-5. We encourage you to read one or both of the following excellent books that he has written that are now available at half price: The Heart God Hears ($5.00) and Principles of Perseverance ($6.00). You may purchase the books at the Evangelism & Spiritual Growth Resource Center.
• MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY: Ushers are needed for both Sunday morning services. If you’d be interested in serving in this ministry or finding out more about it, see one of the ushers or call Tony Pappani.

HOMETEAMS MEETING THIS WEEK

• Seekers of Light men’s study (Sullivans)—Sunday, 3:00 PM
• Christians in Action (Proiettis)—Tuesday, 7:00 PM
• Branches of Messiah (Wheelers)—Wednesday, 6:30 PM
• YACC for Young Adults (Gardners)—Thursday, 6:30 PM
• Young Adult Discipleship (Bells)—Thursday, 6:45 PM
• Women of Faith (Telliers)—Friday, 10:00 AM
• Pick up directions at the Welcome Center. You are invited!

CHURCH LIBRARY

• The library, located next to the Youth Chapel, is open:
• Sunday: 10:00-11:00 AM, after second service, 6:00-6:30 PM
• Wednesday: 6:15-6:30 PM and after Family Night ministries

TAKE THE LAND OFFERINGS TO DATE

• Beginning Mortgage: $600,000
• 30-month Offerings Goal: $405,000
• 30-month Total $ Pledged: $216,221
• Offerings/Payments: $87,355
• Current Mortgage Balance: $512,645

IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER

• A message will be left on the God’s Word for Today line (978-537-6260) if church services or activities are cancelled. You can also check for cancellations on our Web site: www.laog.org.

NEEDS IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY

• A young man was recently hired by a construction company and is in need of some tools. Please call Jason at 978-235-7162 if you can help with this need.

BULLETIN INSERTS

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February 24, 2008 by PastorDave.

Often as we gather on Sunday morning for worship, we invite Jesus to make himself known so that we would experience His presence. Jesus gave direction for this very thing. “Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him” (John 14:21). What a powerful statement by Jesus! He will show himself to those who have and obey His Word. As we worship today, ask the Lord to give you a heart of understanding and obedience to “His commands,” so that He might show himself today! Lord, we desire to see You!

Pastor David McIntosh

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February 22, 2008 by PastorBob.

ISSUE #1 - An outreach ministry of Leominster Assembly of God

My sermon last Sunday morning was entitled “Love the Lost”. In that sermon, I read what I believe was Jesus’ answer to why we were not immediately taken into Heaven the moment we were saved:

Matthew 5:13-16 – “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

I do not believe that God left us here on earth after we were saved for ourselves since life in Heaven will be infinitely more wonderful than life here on earth. Rather, I believe He left us here to reach out in love to the multitudes of lost souls that still need to here the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

We should love the lost because God the Father and Jesus love them so much that Jesus was willing to pay the horrible price of crucifixion. Jesus paid the full price for every sin that has ever or will ever be committed so that lost mankind could be saved and spend eternity in Heaven (John 3:16 / Hebrews 12:2 / Romans 5:7 & 8).

We should love the lost because the Bible commands us to love them (Galatians 5:22 / 1 John 4:8 / Matthew 5:44). We can love anybody if we let Jesus love them through us (Galatians 2:20).

We should reach out in love to the lost because the consequences of their not being saved are terrible. If a person dies without Christ, he will stand before the Great White Throne Judgment Seat of Christ. From there he will be thrown into the Lake of Fire where he will be tormented for eternity (Revelation 20:11-15).

We need to see people as God sees them. We see people as short or tall, rich or poor, black, white, red or yellow, popular or unpopular and so on. The successful people we know we see as wealthy, intelligent, popular, influential, beautiful, etc. God sees all people as either born again and headed for Heaven or lost and headed for the Lake of Fire. The Bible tells us that even the most successful people are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, naked, far from God, strangers, hopeless, condemned and spiritually dead (Revelation 3:17 / Ephesians 2:17 / Ephesians 2/12 / John 5:24).

Leominster Assembly of God provides many resources for reaching the lost for Christ including:

Amazing Love CDs and cassettes – Amazing Love is a clear, stirring presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ including an invitation to receive Jesus, a sinner’s prayer and instructions for growing in Christ. Amazing Love is a dramatic narration accompanied by a wonderful original music score and sound effects. Amazing Love CDs and cassettes are provided free of charge to all who will distribute them to the lost.

Gospel Explosion Services – These are dynamic, life-changing, evangelistic services that always include a clear Gospel message and an altar call. Flyers and/or tickets are available for distribution to your family, friends and acquaintances. Ground Zero, Master’s Commission from Pennsylvania will be featured at this Sunday evening’s Gospel Explosion service. This promises to be a lively exciting evening including stomp, drama and life-changing testimonies.

New Awakening Telephone Ministry – This is a clear Gospel Message presented 24/7 over the telephone. It includes a sinner’s prayer and an opportunity for callers to leave their name and address in order to receive a free Amazing Love CD. Professionally printed quality “calling cards” are available free of charge for distribution to anyone and everyone.

Alpha Course – This is a 12-week non-threatening, fun, proven study examining Jesus Christ and His teachings. Each session includes a 30-minute DVD teaching, a light meal, fellowship and small group discussions all in a casual, friendly atmosphere. The Alpha Course will be held in the church fellowship hall from 3:00 PM through 5:15 PM on Sunday afternoons starting on March 30. Brochures are available free of charge for distribution to your unsaved family, friends and acquaintances.

Effective Personal Soul Winning (EPSW) Class – This is a proven course in personal evangelism that my wife, Melinda, and I taught in over 250 churches throughout the United States with great results. Literally thousands of written testimonials attest to the fact that EPSW is easy-to-learn, easy-to-use and absolutely non-threatening. The goal of the course is to train, equip and motivate evangelical Christians to introduce their unsaved family, friends and acquaintances to Jesus. Because EPSW relies on the Holy Spirit to use willing Christians to reach the lost, there is no requirement on the part of the participants to memorize “canned” conversation or to demonstrate in front of the class. EPSW is held on Wednesday evenings starting at 6:30 in the triangle room which is just through the door on the right hand side of the altar area. There are still a few seats available for those who want to join the class that is currently in progress.

Evangelism and Spiritual Growth Resource Center – This is where you will find Amazing Love CDs, New Awakening Telephone Ministry “calling cards”, booklets, tracts and other materials for your personal spiritual growth or for distribution to your unsaved family, friends and acquaintances. The first three booklets are free. There is a nominal charge for additional booklets to cover our cost.

Personal Consultation – I am available to speak with you personally over the phone or in my office concerning how you might approach a family member, friend or acquaintance in order to lead them to Christ. If you have not already done so, I urge you to attend the Effective Personal Soul Winning Class. EPSW includes a great deal of information concerning ways to approach and reach the lost for Christ.

Meetings with the Unsaved – If you can arrange a meeting, I would be happy to meet with any of your family members, friends or acquaintances to discuss why they should and how they can be saved.

Pastor Bob Salliby

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February 17, 2008 by PastorBob.

Love The Lost, Pastor Bob Salliby, Sunday 02-17-2008

INTRODUCTION

1. SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 5:13-16 (JESUS) “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
2. PRAYER
3. WHY DID GOD LEAVE US HERE? When we get to Heaven
   1. BIBLE – The living Word (Jesus), Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, Peter, Moses, Isaiah, David
   2. PRAYER – We will speak with Jesus face to face
   3. WORSHIP – We will worship literally in His presence
   4. FELLOWSHIP – Saved family members, friends, Joshua, Daniel, Benjamin, Mary and Joseph, Phillip, Mary Magdalene, Samaritan Woman,
   5. THOSE WHO LED US TO CHRIST
   6. THOSE GOD USED US TO LEAD TO CHRIST
   7. IN HEAVEN WE CANNOT INTRODUCE ANYONE TO CHRIST
   8. MATTHEW 5:16 “…let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

WHY SHOULD WE LOVE THE LOST?

1. BECAUSE GOD LOVES THEM:
   1. John 3:16 (Jesus) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
   2. Hebrews 12:2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
   3. Romans 5:7 and 8 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
2. BECAUSE THE BIBLE COMMANDS US TO LOVE THEM
   1. Galatians 5:22 and 23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control
   2. 1 John 4:8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.
   3. Matthew 5:44(a) (Jesus) “But I say unto you, Love your enemies,…”
   4. A slogan that used to be very popular is, “Jesus in me loves you”. This is the key to loving everybody and anybody. The apostle Paul is quoted in Galatians 2:20(a) as stating what should be the testimony of every true Christian: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
   5. DRAW CLOSE TO GOD – Bible, Prayer, Church, Christian Fellowship, Availability (Surrender) to God: God will supply the love you need, even for your enemies, if you will allow Him to love others through you. As God’s love shines through you, you will likely be amazed at how many lost souls are drawn to you and to Him.
3. BECAUSE THE CONSEQUENCES OF NOT REACHING THEM ARE TERRIBLE
   1. Those who die without Christ will appear before the Great Throne Judgment Seat of Christ
   2. Revelation 20:11-13 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades (hell) gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done.
   3. Those who die without Christ will spend eternity in the Lake of Fire.
   4. Revelation 20:14 and 15 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
   5. Matthew 13:42 (Jesus) They (angels) will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
   6. Matthew 25:41 and 46(a) (Jesus) Then he(Jesus as Judge) will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Then they will go away to eternal punishment,
   7. Proverbs 11:7 When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes.
   8. Using these and other related passages of Scripture, the following is probably a reasonably accurate description of the eternal torment awaiting anyone who dies without Christ.
   9. A sinner (Romans 3:23) who dies under the penalty of death (Romans 6:23) finds himself before the Great White Throne Judgment Seat of Christ (Revelation 20:11-13). Just one glance at the awesome magnificence of Christ in all of His glory (Daniel 7:9 and 10) causes him to tremble uncontrollably. After just that one glance, he painfully realizes that the most important thing he could have done in his ill-spent lifetime was to have accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and lived his life for Him (John 1:12 and Matthew 16:24-27).
   10. In total awe and overwhelming fear, he falls to his knees and proclaims with a loud, trembling voice, “Jesus is Lord” (Philippians 2:9-11). But, it is too late (Proverbs 11:7). His name is not found written in the Book of Life, and he is cast howling and screaming into a pitch-dark lake of fire (Revelation 20:15 and Matthew 25:30). In absolute horror, he realizes that the burning, tormenting flames are not consuming him (Matthew 25:41 and 46). He cannot see his hand in front of his face (Matthew 25:30), and although his ears are filled with the wailing of great multitudes of people all around him (Matthew 13:42), he knows there is no such thing as friendship here … he is very much alone.
   11. With agonizing frequency and seemingly brain-shattering volume, thoughts of his past life relentlessly bombard his tormented mind. But, no thought brings such paralyzing horror as when he recalls that the person who told him about Jesus, or perhaps the angel that cast him into the fire, warned him that the agony of the lake of fire would last forever … unending … eternal … no hope … no second chance … everlasting … FOREVER!!!! (Matthew 25:46)

GOD SEES THE LOST DIFFERENTLY THAN WE DO?

1. MAN’S VIEWPOINT
   1. tall/short, fat/skinny, black/white, good looking/not good looking
   2. rich/poor, educated/not educated, popular/unpopular, famous/unknown, smart/not
   3. tend to see “successful” people as
   4. Wealthy
   5. Intelligent
   6. Well known
   7. Successful
   8. Popular
   9. Influential
   10. Beautiful
   11. Perfect
2. GOD’S VIEWPOINT
   1. SPIRITUALLY born again and going to Heaven or LOST and going to Hell
   2. REVELATION 3:17 wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked
   3. EPHESIANS 2:17 FAR FROM GOD
   4. Ephesians 2:12 STRANGERS AND HOPELESS
   5. John 5:24 CONDEMNED AND SPIRITUALLY DEAD
   6. LIFE IS SHORT (SNAP)

TOOLS FOR REACHING THE LOST

1. AMAZING LOVE
   1. Proven – Many testimonies
   2. Romans 1:16 I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation
   3. 1 Corinthians 2:2 For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.
   4. Professionally produced – dramatic narration – powerful original music score and sound effects
   5. 2 CDs PER MONTH
2. GOSPEL EXPLOSION
   1. MASTERS COMMISSION GROUND ZERO
   2. Always Evangelistic
   3. Always Dynamic
   4. Always Clear Gospel Message
   5. Always Life-changing
   6. Last Sunday of Each Month
   7. 1 ticket or flyer per month
3. NEW AWAKENING TELEPHONE MINISTRY
   1. Clear Gospel Message
   2. Available 24/7
   3. Includes Sinner’s Prayer
   4. Free Amazing Love CD is Offered
   5. 1 card per week
4. ALPHA COURSE
   1. Proven
   2. Non-threatening
   3. Fun
   4. Casual Atmosphere
   5. Thorough
   6. Effective
   7. Fellowship Hall – Sundays 3-5:15 PM – Starting March 30
   8. 1 BROCHURE
5. EFFECTIVE PERSONAL SOUL WINNING CLASS
   1. Proven
   2. Easy to Learn
   3. Easy to Use
   4. Holy Spirit based
   5. Non Threatening
   6. No Memorization
6. EVANGELISM AND SPIRITUAL GROWTH RESOURCE CENTER
   1. Booklets, CDs, DVDs for Evangelism and Spiritual Growth
7. PERSONAL CONSULTATION
8. ARRANGE FOR MEETING WITH UNSAVED

CONCLUSION

1. TOGETHER WE CAN DO THIS
   1. 250 people distributing 2 Amazing Love CDs every month = 500 people monthly hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ each month
   2. 250 people distributing 1 Gospel Explosion flyer every month = 250 people invited to an evangelistic service each month
   3. 250 people distributing 4 New Awakening telephone ministry cards each month = 1000 people are invited to hear an evangelistic message each month
   4. 250 people distributing 1 Alpha Course brochure = 250 invited to the Alpha Course
2. ALTAR COURSE

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February 17, 2008 by admin.

JOIN US TODAY

• WORSHIP and THE WORD at 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM
  Nursery, 4s and 5s, Kids 4 Christ
  The Take the Land offering will be taken today.
  Pastor Bob Salliby, “Love the Lost,” Matthew 5:13-16
• CHRISTIAN EDUCATION at 10:00 AM for all ages
• WATER BAPTISM CLASS at 10:00 AM in the Sanctuary
• PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY, 1:00-3:00 PM, Pastor’s office
• EVENING PRAYER SERVICE at 6:30 PM
• CHILDREN’S PLAY REHEARSAL, 6:30 PM in the Youth Chapel

JOIN US THIS WEEK

• MONDAY 7:00 PM—Prayer
• TUESDAY 1:00 PM—Circle of Friends Coffee/Tea Time
  6:30 PM—ESL (English for All Nations)
  7:00 PM—Oh Lord, What is Your Vision for My Life?
  7:30 PM—Christian 12 Step
• WEDNESDAY 5:45 PM—A.L.I.V.E. Homeschoolers Prayer
  6:30 PM—FAMILY NIGHT
  Rainbows (girls & boys, 3 up to K)
  Girls Ministries (grades K-8)
  Royal Rangers (boys’ clubs, K-12)
  Impact Student Ministries
  Effective Personal Soul Winning
  Adult Bible Study (L.A.B.I.)—New Beginnings and Healthy Relationships:Husband & Wife Relationships (Genesis 16)
• THURSDAY 6:30 PM—Church Board Meeting
• SATURDAY 4:00 PM—African Fellowship Prayer
  7:00 PM—All-Church Prayer

ANNOUNCING

• THE PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY meets today from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in Pastor Mark’s office. Join any time! Contact Alice Stacy for details.
• JOIN US FOR THE WATER BAPTISM SERVICE tonight at 6:30. What a time of rejoicing it will be! Pastor Harv will share a brief message from the Word.
• “CIRCLE OF FRIENDS” ladies are invited to coffee/tea time at the home of Jean Meppelink in West Boylston this Tuesday, February 19, at 1:00 PM. All are invited. For simple directions, stop by the Welcome Center today.
• A HANNAH PRAYER GROUP for women will meet every other Monday, 8:30-9:30 AM, beginning on February 25 at the home of Rita Trainque (19 Buono Avenue, Leominster). You may call Rita for directions.
• WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD to Teacher/Evangelist Wes Daughenbaugh being with us Sunday through Wednesday, March 2-5. We encourage you to read one or both of the following excellent books that he has written that are now available at half price: The Heart God Hears ($5.00) and Principles of Perseverance ($6.00). You may purchase the books at the Welcome Center.

HOMETEAMS MEETING THIS WEEK

• Christians in Action (Proiettis)—Tuesday, 7:00 PM
• Branches of Messiah (Wheelers)—Wednesday, 6:30 PM
• YACC for Young Adults (Gardners)—Thursday, 6:30 PM
• Young Adult Discipleship (Bells)—Thursday, 6:45 PM
• Women of Faith (Telliers)—Friday, 10:00 AM
• Pick up directions at the Welcome Center. You are invited!

CHURCH LIBRARY

• The library, located next to the Youth Chapel, is open:
• Sunday: 10:00-11:00 AM, after second service, 6:00-6:30 PM
• Wednesday: 6:15-6:30 PM and after Family Night ministries

TAKE THE LAND OFFERINGS TO DATE

• Beginning Mortgage: $600,000
• 30-month Offerings Goal: $405,000
• 30-month Total $ Pledged: $216,221
• Offerings/Payments: $85,983
• Current Mortgage Balance: $514,017

IN CASE OF BAD WEATHER

• A message will be left on the God’s Word for Today line (978-537-6260) if church services or activities are cancelled. You can also check for cancellations on our Web site: www.laog.org.

NEEDS IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY

• A young man was recently hired by a construction company and is in need of some tools. Please call Jason at 978-235-7162 if you can help with this need.

BULLETIN INSERTS

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February 17, 2008 by PastorDave.

The Psalmist wrote: “Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord; Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord” (Psalm 134:1-2). The word used for praise can also be interpreted bless. God is reminding us that He wants us to praise and bless Him! When we gather together, it is our responsibility (according to Psalm 134) to praise and bless God while we are in a corporate setting. So even if you do not feel like it this morning, you are still being asked of God to bless Him and praise Him by singing with joy from your heart and even with your body by lifting your hands in the air as an act of praise. May we all sense the presence of the Holy Spirit this morning and with a heart of gratitude bless and praise the Lord according to His Word.

Pastor David McIntosh

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February 10, 2008 by PastorDave.

#302, Love Your Neighbor, Pastor David McIntosh, 02-10-2008

Text: Matthew 22:39

INTRODUCTION

1. We said we were going to talk about love throughout the month of February.
2. Last week we focused on the command that Jesus gave us to Love the Lord.
3. This morning we are going to focus our attention on another command Jesus gave us, to love our neighbor.
4. Share the story from “day 274” Home at last!”
5. It is this kind of willingness to look out for the interests of others as if they were our own, that Jesus speaks about here in Matthew 22:37-40 (READ THEM)

MAKE THE CONNECTION

1. The first connection we need to understand is that we can not love God and at the same time hate our neighbor. It is impossible to love God and hate people.
2. People who hold grudges, take offenses, and desire to get even with other people; but at the same time say they have a great relationship with the Lord have been deceived by their own hard hearts.
3. 1 John 4:20, 21- “If anyone says, I love God, yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.”
4. James 2:8 – “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, Love your neighbor as yourself, you are doing right.”
5. In the following chapter James went on to say, “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness…My brothers this should not be.” (James 3:9,10)
6. Remember Jesus said that all the prophets & laws hang on these two commandments. They are connected, Love the Lord and Love your neighbor.
7. We need to make the connection that loving our neighbor is actually loving God.
8. Matthew 25:40 – “I tell you the truth, whatever you did for anyone of these least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.”

LEARN THE SECRET TO LOVING YOUR NEIGHBORS

1. The story is told of a former Miss America who hated some of her physical features. The problem was they were not features she could change; they were part of God’s design for her life.
2. Self-rejection is often caused by comparing our unchangeable characteristics to those of others.
3. In order to love & accept ourselves correctly we must be able to accept and thank God for our unchangeable features.
4. THEY INCLUDE: parents, birth order, brothers & sisters, nationality, ethnic origin, my time in history, basic physical features, life span, and gender.
5. If we reject or design, we also reject our designer.
6. If we reject the way God designed our lives we will ridicule and reject God’s design of others.
7. Share story of teenagers who reject themselves, divert attention by mocking others appearances or features.
8. WE CAN NOT FULLY LOVE OTHERS WITHOUT FIRST LEARNING TO ACCEPT THE WAY GOD HAS MADE US.
9. We can take a big step toward loving our neighbor by first thanking God for the way He has designed our lives.

LEARN HOW TO LOVE WITH WISDOM

1. A kind compassionate man thought he was showing love to his neighbor when after hearing of all the financial woes his neighbor said if someone would just co-sign a loan for him all his troubles would be over.
2. The kind man decided to co-sign the note in “love” for his neighbor.
3. Years later this man received an urgent call from the bank demanding immediate payment of $ 700,000.00!
4. Instead of alleviating financial pressure, this additional loan enabled the neighbor to mismanage even greater sums of money.
5. Showing love to a neighbor does not mean we always do what is being asked.
6. We always need the wisdom of God’s Word even when loving others.
7. A physical need may actually be the result of a spiritual need.
8. 2 Timothy 3:16,17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
9. In order to love our neighbors wisely, we must know the Bible and be skilled at applying its truths to our lives and to the needs of others.

LEARN THE NEW COMMANDMENT OF JESUS!

1. The story is told of Christian parents who were alarmed when their 17 yr. old daughter ran away from home.
2. There didn’t appear to be wrong friends involved & she wasn’t turning her back on God.
3. The 17-yr. old girl said she just couldn’t get along with her parents and claimed that nothing she did ever pleased them.
4. The parents explained that they had always been strict on themselves and strict in their training of their daughter.
5. What happened was through their commitment to “perfectionism” they relayed the message of “conditional love” to their daughter.
6. “We will love you as long as you measure up.”
7. They failed to understand the new commandment Jesus gave in John 13:34, 35 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
8. Someone helped me with this verse. I never saw how it was a new command. But Jesus was commanding us to not love others has we love ourselves, but to love others as He has loved us!
9. Jesus loves us unconditionally.
10. He loved us when we hated him.
11. He loves us when we disobey him
12. He continues to love us even when we reject him.

EXAMPLES OF HOW JESUS LOVED “NEIGHBORS!”

1. He left the glory of His home to enter “our world” to help us.
2. He broke down barriers of age, status, and allowed himself to live poor.
3. He honored his parents and served his family as a carpenter.
4. He honored his neighbors by going to special events (weddings, funerals, feasts)
5. He gave what was truly needed to people who came to him (food, healing, counsel)
6. He spent long hours praying for those whom He served
7. He forgave his enemies and those who mocked him.

CLOSING

1. Jesus said to us, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”
2. Jesus is sending each one of us on a mission to love our neighbors!
3. What is an obstacle in the way of you doing this?
4. What can you do before the sun set today to take even a “baby step” in loving the people God has placed in your life?
5. Think about the people in your life (spouse, children siblings, parents, family members, friends, co-workers, boss, and neighbors) Jesus has ordained that these are the people He wants to love through you.
6. Lets ask God to fill us with his love, power, grace and desire to love others!

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February 10, 2008 by admin.

JOIN US TODAY

• WORSHIP and THE WORD at 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM
  Nursery, 4s and 5s, Kids 4 Christ
  We will share together in Holy Communion
  Pastor Dave McIntosh, “Love Your Neighbor,” Matthew 22:39
• CHRISTIAN EDUCATION at 10:00 AM for all ages
• EVENING PRAYER SERVICE at 6:30 PM
• CHILDREN’S EASTER PLAY REHEARSAL at 6:30 PM

JOIN US THIS WEEK

• MONDAY 7:00 PM—Prayer
• TUESDAY 6:30 PM—ESL (English for All Nations)
  6:30 PM—Prayer for Israel
  7:30 PM—Christian 12 Step
• WEDNESDAY 5:45 PM—A.L.I.V.E. Homeschoolers Prayer
  6:30 PM—FAMILY NIGHT
  Rainbows (girls & boys, 3 up to K)
  Girls Ministries (grades K-8)
  Royal Rangers (boys’ clubs, K-12)
  Impact Student Ministries
  Effective Personal Soul Winning
  Adult Bible Study (L.A.B.I.)—New Beginnings and Healthy Relationships: Husband & Wife Relationships (Genesis 16)
• SATURDAY 7:00 PM—All-Church Prayer

ANNOUNCING

• THE PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY will meet next Sunday, February 17, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM in Pastor Mark’s office. Join any time! Contact Alice Stacy for details.
• A WATER BAPTISM will be held next Sunday, February 17, during the 6:30 PM service. If you want to be baptized, please fill out and turn in a blue application card from the Welcome Center. You will need to attend a class next Sunday morning at 10:00.
• “CIRCLE OF FRIENDS” ladies are invited to coffee/tea time at the home of Jean Meppelink in West Boylston on Tuesday, February 19, at 1:00 PM. All are invited. For simple directions, stop by the Welcome Center today.
• SIGN UP AT THE WELCOME CENTER for the “Oh Lord, What is Your Vision for My Life?” 12-week series. It begins February 19 and will be held Tuesdays, 7:00-8:15 PM, through May 6. Daryl Rainbow, Coming Alongside Ministries, is sponsoring the series.
• A HANNAH PRAYER GROUP for women will meet every other Monday, 8:30-9:30 AM, beginning on February 25 at the home of Rita Trainque (19 Buono Avenue, Leominster). You may call her for directions.
• DO YOU KNOW of someone who would like to improve their English? Every Tuesday night from 6:30 to 8:45 dedicated teachers help individuals from around the world learn the English language. Classes range from the very beginner to those who know the language but want to improve their reading, writing or speaking skills. If you or someone you know is interested, come to the Fellowship Hall Tuesday nights at 6:30. Jean Meppelink or Joanna Bowolick will help you get to the right class! The only cost is $15 for the workbook. For more info, call Jean.

HOMETEAMS MEETING THIS WEEK

• Seekers of Light men’s study (Sullivans)—Sunday, 3:00 PM
• Christians in Action (Proiettis)—Tuesday, 7:00 PM
• Branches of Messiah (Wheelers)—Wednesday, 6:30 PM
• YACC for Young Adults (Gardners)—Thursday, 6:30 PM
• Young Adult Discipleship (Bells)—Thursday, 6:45 PM
• Women of Faith (Telliers)—Friday, 10:00 AM
• Pick up directions at the Welcome Center. You are invited!

CHURCH LIBRARY

• The library, located next to the Youth Chapel, is open:
• Sunday: 10:00-11:00 AM, after second service, 6:00-6:30 PM
• Wednesday: 6:15-6:30 PM and after Family Night ministries

TAKE THE LAND OFFERINGS TO DATE

• Beginning Mortgage: $600,000
• 30-month Offerings Goal: $405,000
• 30-month Total $ Pledged: $216,221
• Offerings/Payments: $85,660
• Current Mortgage Balance: $514,340

NEEDS IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY

• A woman in the church has an urgent need for a car. She is a full-time college student. Do you have a car you could donate or sell at a low cost? Please see Terry or Melinda today or call the church office ASAP if you can help meet this need.

BULLETIN INSERTS

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