http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/ Sun, 20 May 2012 04:00:08 GMT en-us Copyright 2012 First Presbyterian Church of Coral Springs || Margate http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-13-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-13-2012/ Fri, 11 May 2012 15:10:30 GMT Prayer The following is taken from James Smith, Sunny Subjects for All Seasons (1858). How important is a spirit of prayer! It is . . . the proof of regeneration, the manifestation of grace in our hearts, and the evidence of our title to ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-13-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-13-2012/ Fri, 11 May 2012 15:04:01 GMT "In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-13-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-13-2012/ Fri, 11 May 2012 14:53:34 GMT Two events occur this week, one today, Mother’s Day, remembered and celebrated throughout the land. The other occurs this coming Thursday, a day which marks the ascension of our Lord into heaven but with hardly any notice at all. It ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-6-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-6-2012/ Fri, 04 May 2012 13:55:32 GMT Giving and Advancing the Gospel "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-6-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-6-2012/ Fri, 04 May 2012 13:51:06 GMT "We are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him."-2 Corinthians 5:8,9 As Pastor Drew continues in his sermon series on ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-6-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-6-2012/ Fri, 04 May 2012 13:35:57 GMT Those who use the Missionary Associates Directory on a regular basis know Joe and Bev Fitzpatrick and their family. You will remember they began their ministry in Manila, Joe’s primary responsibilities being seminary instruction. Later, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-29-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-29-2012/ Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:53:38 GMT Giving and Advancing the Gospel "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-29-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-29-2012/ Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:44:38 GMT "For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s." -Romans 14:8 Today, Pastor Drew continues his sermon series on Philippians, and has come to ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-29-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-29-2012/ Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:39:13 GMT Anyone want to guess the age of the Presbyterian Church in America? The PCA has been together for forty years – one biblical generation. Why a generation? In biblical thought and reckoning, a generation consists of forty years. Perhaps a ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pasors-letter-april-22-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pasors-letter-april-22-2012/ Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:29:19 GMT TAKE 7 PRAYER (A Call to ‘EXTRODINARY PRAYER’ for Revival) Extraordinary prayer (a term I got from Jonathan Edwards) is when we come together as a body and are united in one purpose and are persistent in praying for that purpose, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-22-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-22-2012/ Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:24:57 GMT "But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-22-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-22-2012/ Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:19:33 GMT Last Sunday morning was a special time for our church. Something like this happens just once a year. We aren’t prepared for it. It just takes place one Sunday morning. We’re talking about the reception of seven of our younger friends ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-15-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-15-2012/ Fri, 13 Apr 2012 18:25:50 GMT DO I MEET YOU PRAYING? As I mentioned in previous weeks, my doctoral project is a book for those preparing to take ordination exams and enter ministry. Writing this has caused me to reflect on my own ministry, comparing what I do to what I ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-15-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-15-2012/ Fri, 13 Apr 2012 18:21:59 GMT "Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen." -Acts 28:28 At the end of the book of Acts, we read that Paul arrived at Rome. He was placed under house arrest, but lived in his ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-15-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-15-2012/ Wed, 11 Apr 2012 21:37:24 GMT World Changers 4/15 Easter has come and gone; special choir music, beautiful flower arrangements, times with friends over an Easter meal, all of it over but the fleeting memory. We race into the present. But wait. Didn't we hear this past ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-8-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-8-2012/ Tue, 03 Apr 2012 22:52:35 GMT "He Is Risen!" "He is risen indeed!" We welcome all of you today with this traditional Easter greeting. May the Lord bless you as you look in faith to the resurrected Savior of the world! Jesus' resurrection means that there is hope for us. ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-8-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-8-2012/ Tue, 03 Apr 2012 22:45:14 GMT Why do we worship as we do here at First Presbyterian Church?  One reason is that we believe that worship is redemptive.  By this, we mean that God accepts us into His presence – sinners though we are – through the blood ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-1-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-1-2012/ Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:35:54 GMT PALM SUNDAY   "And they brought it to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. And as he rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road. As he was drawing near - already on the way down the Mount of Olives - ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-1-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-1-2012/ Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:27:41 GMT Holy Week. We wonder what must those days have meant to him? How did the four Gospel writers think about it? Many are unaware that Matthew, Mark, Luke and John devoted a hugely disproportionate amount of space to this final week – in ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-1-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-1-2012/ Fri, 30 Mar 2012 16:59:34 GMT Dear Church family,   It is good to be back.  I wanted to thank the session and congregation for your many prayers and for allowing me to take the month to work on my DMin project.  My project will eventually be a 200-250 page ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-25-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-25-2012/ Thu, 22 Mar 2012 20:50:52 GMT With Pastor Drew’s month-long sabbatical to work on his doctorate coming to an end, I am using this last opportunity to promote the FPC Music Series Easter Concert, Mendelssohn’s Elijah. Last week I noted that the material for this ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-25-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-25-2012/ Thu, 22 Mar 2012 20:48:48 GMT "No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. And night will be no more. They will need no ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-25-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-25-2012/ Thu, 22 Mar 2012 20:46:49 GMT David Cunningham’s style of speaking is somewhat unique. Some may remember him as one of our mission conference speakers a few years ago. It was a great pleasure to have him with us once more. Now we need to pray for this family of six as ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-18-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-18-2012/ Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:07:15 GMT This coming Palm Sunday, April 1, 2012 at 7 p.m., the FPC Concert Choir and Orchestra will present Felix Mendelssohn’s masterpiece, Elijah. Mendelssohn’s oratorio is based on 1 Kings 17 and 18, which describes the prophet ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-18-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-18-2012/ Fri, 16 Mar 2012 20:01:42 GMT "And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I! Send me.’" -Isaiah 6:8  When God asked who would go for Him, and Isaiah stepped forward without ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-18-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-18-2012/ Fri, 16 Mar 2012 19:59:14 GMT It started May 7, 1998, with a letter from Frank Barker, pastor of Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama. The letter began "I am writing to inform you of an exciting new mission that I thought your church might like to support. ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-11-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-11-2012/ Fri, 09 Mar 2012 22:20:25 GMT Fight the Power! Today’s sermon will be dealing with the issue of Church Government. Over history many forms of Church Government have come into power. Episcopal Government: Hierarchical in structure with the chief authority over the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-11-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-11-2012/ Fri, 09 Mar 2012 22:07:24 GMT “I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also.” -1 Corinthians 14:15bAt FPC, we take seriously Paul’s example in 1 Corinthians 14:15 (see above).  And we believe that music rightly plays a large ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-11-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-11-2012/ Fri, 09 Mar 2012 22:00:35 GMT Every now and then something I read catches my eye.  When that happens, I wonder if it should appear in World Changers.  I believe this one does.It isn’t a review of a book.  It is a condensation of thoughts that appear in a ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-4-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-4-2012/ Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:21:59 GMT Church MembershipThe following material on Church Membership is from 9Marks by Mark Dever.  I thought it would be good for you to reflect upon and consider your own faithfulness as a Church Member.• Before we think about what local ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-4-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-4-2012/ Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:04:35 GMT “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night, to the music of the lute and the harp, to the melody of the lyre.  For ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-4-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-4-2012/ Fri, 02 Mar 2012 15:56:22 GMT A story about handbells doesn’t appear very often, least of all in this little space.  But the story needs to be told, however, because all of us need constant reminders of the Lord’s grace at work in our lives individually and ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-19-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-19-2012/ Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:51:22 GMT As I mentioned last week, I am repeating the Pastor’s Letter from the week before. Some Changes in our Worship Service As I have been studying the book of Philippians, it has become obvious that the fellowship of Christians is an ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-19-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-19-2012/ Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:47:03 GMT "For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."-Philippians 2:13 Today as Pastor Drew continues his sermon series on Philippians, we come to chapter 1:9-11. Last week he focused on 1:7, 8 in which he explored ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-16-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-16-2012/ Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:44:35 GMT We may not give much thought to Presidents’ Day and how it should be celebrated or even Washington’s birthday which follows two days later. But this year the Lenten season begins the same day as Washington’s birthday. The ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-12-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-12-2012/ Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:42:13 GMT Some Changes in our Worship ServiceAs I have been studying the book of Philippians, it has become obvious that the fellowship of Christians is an integral part of our life as Christ-followers. As we learned last week, true biblical fellowship is ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-12-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-12-2012/ Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:31:17 GMT "I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ." -Ephesians 3:17, 18  For some years before I ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-12-2012/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-12-2012/ Fri, 10 Feb 2012 16:29:43 GMT Does the name Valentinus ring any bells? Probably not, but since every year at this time we’re overwhelmed with the need to send Valentine cards, candy and flowers it might not be too difficult to make the connection. However, as you will ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-4-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-4-2011/ Sun, 04 Sep 2011 22:13:29 GMT Each One Reach One!  This year’s focus for outreach at FPC is simple and direct, Each One Reach One.  If every person who worships regularly at our church was able to bring one new person to church we would double in size in a ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-4-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-4-2011/ Sun, 04 Sep 2011 19:41:28 GMT “But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-4-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-4-2011/ Sun, 04 Sep 2011 19:40:52 GMT Many of us are familiar with the Cunningham family, one of our Missionary Associates living and ministering in Australia. As a church we helped David and Susan go to Australia in 1998, primarily to do the work of evangelism among university ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-21-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-21-2011/ Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:42:16 GMT The fall season (whatever that means in south Florida) is nearly upon us. Younger kids are back in school, and the older ones about to begin their college classes. This year’s church theme "Each One Reach One" will be voiced abroad. With ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-28-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-28-2011/ Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:41:55 GMT "The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, "Follow me." Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-28-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-28-2011/ Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:41:43 GMT All of us know what the sacraments are; baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Why do we call these sacraments and nothing else? Ignoring a more precise definition for the moment, generally, people understand sacraments as places where God is ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-28-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-28-2011/ Fri, 26 Aug 2011 12:59:25 GMT Each One Reach One: Bringing Our Neighbors to Christ Most of you know my testimony. On several occasions I have shared bits and pieces of it from the pulpit. Often when talking to someone about ‘how I came to Christ’ the emphasis ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-21-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-21-2011/ Sun, 21 Aug 2011 19:42:26 GMT "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work." -2 Timothy 3:16, 17  One of the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-21-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-21-2011/ Fri, 19 Aug 2011 22:25:39 GMT O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go One of my most favorite hymns of all time is the hymn O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go . It was written by George Matheson, a Scottish Presbyterian minister, June 6, 1882. The story of Matheson’s life is a ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-14-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-14-2011/ Sun, 14 Aug 2011 19:42:59 GMT “After this, the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: ‘Do not be afraid, Abram.  I am your shield, your very great reward.’” -Genesis 15:1  Often, when we meet another person we engage in small talk ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-14--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-14--2011/ Sun, 14 Aug 2011 19:42:44 GMT In the 21st edition of Operation World with its 798 pages, the nation of China takes up 30 pages alone.  This country is so vast that the editors of this volume could only deal with information about Christianity by looking at one province ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-14-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-14-2011/ Sun, 14 Aug 2011 22:27:47 GMT The Lamb of God Last week as we ended our series of sermons on the book of Genesis focusing on verses 7 and 8 of Genesis 22:  And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!”  And he said, “Here am I, my ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-7-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-7-2011/ Sun, 07 Aug 2011 19:43:54 GMT How many of our 21 Missionary Associates minister in one of the “closed” countries?  The answer?  Only one, Wayne and Ann Curles.  They can’t live in Myanmar (Burma) because all Protestant and Catholic missions ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-7-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-7-2011/ Sun, 07 Aug 2011 19:43:32 GMT “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’”  -John 1:29   Pastor Drew is preaching the last sermon from this part of his sermon ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-7-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-7-2011/ Sun, 07 Aug 2011 22:28:55 GMT Abraham Offers Isaac We finish our series in the book of Genesis (we will return to look at other chapters at another time) with the story of God calling Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac.  This is the fourth great crises that Abraham was ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-31-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-31-2011/ Sun, 31 Jul 2011 19:44:20 GMT “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.  Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven.  And at this sound the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-31-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-31-2011/ Sun, 31 Jul 2011 19:44:07 GMT Today is definitely a red-letter day for First Presbyterian Church.  While we may not hear drum rolls or see rockets in the sky, the fact remains, we are becoming today something that we have never been before – at least in this ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-31-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-31-2011/ Sun, 31 Jul 2011 16:14:14 GMT God’s Faithfulness Today is a special bi-lingual service at FPC to welcome our new Spanish speaking members to the congregation.  Our community in south Florida is blessed with great cultural diversity including people from various ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-24-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-24-2011/ Sun, 24 Jul 2011 19:44:57 GMT “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.  And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” -Ephesians 5:1, 2 Love saw a guilt of sin, and sought a basis of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-24-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-24-2011/ Sun, 24 Jul 2011 16:13:10 GMT Last week I mentioned that one sign of a ‘righteous compromiser’ is that they desire to hold on to even a little sin.  For those who are unwilling to renounce their sin (speaking of unbelievers here) they are offended by ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-24--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-24--2011/ Sun, 24 Jul 2011 16:12:16 GMT   This will be a first for our church.  Next Sunday during the morning worship service, we will receive new members.  Like everyone who joins this church, these soon-to-be members were interviewed by our elders regarding ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-17--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-17--2011/ Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:08:38 GMT What is it like to speak the gospel to people who live in another culture and speak a language and think quite differently from the way we do?  Is it appropriate and meaningful to ask the two diagnostic questions for which Evangelism ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-17-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-17-2011/ Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:10:27 GMT “How long will you love vanity?” Psalm 4:2 I came across this article on the internet.  I found it convicting and a good reminder that we must be diligently seeking to share the gospel with those who are still consumed by the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-17-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-17-2011/ Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:09:45 GMT “And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell.  But as for me and my ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-10-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-10-2011/ Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:08:07 GMT We begin this week in the afterglow of July 4, its cookouts, fireworks, and some remembering of our nation, its history, freedoms, and the opportunities we enjoy as its citizens.  At the same time we should probably recognize the tenuous ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-10-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-10-2011/ Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:07:39 GMT Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper Today we celebrate the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, which Jesus instituted for His disciples on the night of his arrest.  When Jesus said of the bread and wine, “This is my body… ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-10--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-10--2011/ Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:07:11 GMT “Rethinking Retirement,” the title of a recent article in by Faith magazine caught my eye.  The entire article is worth reading, but only a few of the more important items are added below. According to a recent study, every ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-3-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-3-2011/ Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:06:45 GMT Dear Congregation,  This Sunday, July 3, 2011, marks the third anniversary of my becoming minister of music at FPC.  I know that compared to many of you in our congregation, or to the rest of our pastoral staff, that still makes me a ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-3-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-3-2011/ Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:06:21 GMT “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities.  For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.”  -Romans 13:1  Today is Sunday, July 3, 2011, the day before we ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-3--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-3--2011/ Sun, 03 Jul 2011 16:05:07 GMT Don’t you wonder what Joel Tate thought? He’d lived in this same house for years.  It was his mother’s home and after all these years, it was definitely showing its age.  Joel had tried mining as everyone else had ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-26-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-26-2011/ Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:27:36 GMT “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea.” -Psalm 46:1, 2 Today, Pastor Mick is ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-26--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-26--2011/ Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:27:55 GMT Good funeral or memorial services are much too rare.  In too many cases it isn’t entirely clear that the diseased was clearly a child of the Lord.  While this may sound perverse, it is true.  Good funerals are important ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-26-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-26-2011/ Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:34:00 GMT Reaching Out with the Gospel The life of the Christian includes building our relationship with God, building relationships with fellow believers in the church and building relationships with unbelievers in the community.  Over the last ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-19-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-19-2011/ Sun, 19 Jun 2011 16:37:06 GMT Letter to a Dying Son This letter of Legh Richmond (1824) is worth reading.  He is writing to his dying teenage son.  Here is an excerpt.  In it we are reminded of the importance of seeing our sin so that we will turn to our ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-19-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-19-2011/ Sun, 19 Jun 2011 16:37:45 GMT “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-19--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-19--2011/ Sun, 19 Jun 2011 16:39:45 GMT Gospel music, liturgical dancing, preaching and teaching to an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people.  This all happened this past week here in Ft. Lauderdale at the National Baptist Congress held at the Convention Center.   This is in some ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-12-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-12-2011/ Sun, 12 Jun 2011 14:03:51 GMT Proper Perspective It seems to me that there are two types of Christians in this world. Now, this may not be very scientific, but I am going to liken them to animals—albeit strange ones. The first type are buffalo Christians. Buffalos ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-12-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-12-2011/ Sun, 12 Jun 2011 13:59:54 GMT “And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-12--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-12--2011/ Sun, 12 Jun 2011 13:57:26 GMT This should be an exciting morning.  First of all, it is Pentecost Sunday. Like Ascension Day, Pentecost Sunday is also one of the most neglected days of the Christian year. Reasons for such neglect are many and not hard to find. General ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-5-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-5-2011/ Sun, 05 Jun 2011 20:02:16 GMT Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises!  Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the sound of melody!  With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-5-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-5-2011/ Sun, 05 Jun 2011 15:47:24 GMT Christian Biographies Last week J.C. Ryle challenged us to read the scripture daily.  This week I want to challenge us to consider reading Christian Biographies.  Below is a blog entry by John Piper on the topic, entitled, Another ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-5--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-5--2011/ Sun, 05 Jun 2011 15:42:56 GMT The word “Presbyterian,” depending on whom you speak with, has lots of different meanings.  Some might think that the word refers to people who don’t smile a lot, or who like strict doctrinal adherence.  A more ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-29-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-29-2011/ Sun, 29 May 2011 12:40:17 GMT Ignorant formal Christianity – (J. C. Ryle,  “What Is Needed?” 1895) I am convinced that one of our grave defects today, is a most serious diminishing of the good old custom of private reading of the Bible.  Between ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-29-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-29-2011/ Sun, 29 May 2011 12:38:14 GMT “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.  I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.”   -Psalm 77:11, 12  Tomorrow, on Monday, May 30, our nation ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-29--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-29--2011/ Sun, 29 May 2011 12:34:45 GMT Tomorrow is Memorial Day.  Offices and banks are closed, and our mail carriers won’t deliver our mail.  But this coming Thursday there will also be a special day but given no notice, even in our churches.  It is the least ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-22-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-22-2011/ Sun, 22 May 2011 20:03:54 GMT The End of the World – A Summary The Bible makes a distinction between three worlds. 2 Peter 3 reveals the First Heavens and Earth destroyed by the flood, the Present Heavens and Earth that will be destroyed by fire at Christ’s ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-22-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-22-2011/ Sun, 22 May 2011 19:47:20 GMT “Then the angel took the censer and filled it with fire from the altar and threw it on the earth, and there were peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake. Now the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-22--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-22--2011/ Sun, 22 May 2011 19:46:02 GMT The Rev. Billy Graham still gets in the news but most recently it was because of his hospitalization in Asheville, NC.  The latest news says that he has been sent home but his recovery is expected to be slow. We don’t hear much about ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-15-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-15-2011/ Sun, 15 May 2011 14:15:03 GMT The Israel of God      In light of last week’s sermon (and this week’s) on Abraham I thought this article by Robert Reymond would be helpful in explaining the biblical concept that, “The church of Jesus Christ is ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-15-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-15-2011/ Sun, 15 May 2011 14:13:22 GMT “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.  For by it the people of old received their commendation.  By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-15--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-15--2011/ Sun, 15 May 2011 14:11:23 GMT The violence in Mexico just seems to get worse.  Too much of the time we fail to connect this with our friends in Monterrey.  Andres Garza, who with his wife Ruth, has spoken at two of our missions conferences, wrote in February to say ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-8-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-8-2011/ Sun, 08 May 2011 14:22:09 GMT Happy Mother’s Day While reading, I came across this devotional on Proverbs 1:8 by James Smith (written in 1861).  It is entitled the “The Law of your Mother”: “Do not forsake the law of your mother!” ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-8-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-may-8-2011/ Sun, 08 May 2011 14:20:48 GMT “The Lord reigns; he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed; he has put on strength as his belt. Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved.  Your throne is established from of old; you are from everlasting.  The ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-8--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-8--2011/ Sun, 08 May 2011 14:18:30 GMT When you think of spiritual poverty, what nations come to mind?  Ireland would probably not be the first country you would think of in need of missionaries.  Why?  Possibly because Ireland’s ancient Celtic Church was one of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-1--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-may-1--2011/ Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:00:05 GMT Today is something of an anniversary for the Soltaus.  For this reason I thought I should share a few personal thoughts.  Fifty-eight years ago today, Roz, our not-yet two-year old daughter Sue, and I arrived in Yokohama harbor after ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-1-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-1-2011/ Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:58:36 GMT “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.” -2 Timothy 3:16, 17 At FPC, we ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-1-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-may-1-2011/ Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:56:36 GMT Promises for Encouragement On a flight across the country, the pilot’s voice came over the intercom, “Turbulence is approaching, fasten your seat belts!”  The famous boxer Mohammed Ali snapped to the flight attendant, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-24-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-24-2011/ Sun, 24 Apr 2011 21:14:44 GMT Why do we worship as we do here at First Presbyterian Church?  One reason is that we believe that worship is redemptive.  By this, we mean that God accepts us into His presence – sinners though we are – through the blood of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-24-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-24-2011/ Sun, 24 Apr 2011 21:12:55 GMT “He Is Risen!” “He is risen indeed!”  We welcome all of you today with this traditional Easter greeting.  May the Lord bless you as you look in faith to the resurrected Savior of the world! Jesus’ ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-17-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-17-2011/ Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:04:44 GMT Limited Atonement Good Friday and Easter are about atonement.  God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood (Rom. 3:25).  Atonement means “making amends, blotting out the offense, and giving ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-17-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-17-2011/ Sun, 17 Apr 2011 14:02:11 GMT “And they brought it to Jesus, and throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it.  And as he rode along, they spread their cloaks on the road.  As he was drawing near - already on the way down the Mount of Olives - the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-17--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-17--2011/ Sun, 17 Apr 2011 13:56:47 GMT Today marks the beginning of Holy Week, the week in which we celebrate Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday; the week during which we give special attention to the suffering and death of our Lord.  We call the day Palm Sunday and if you know ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-10-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-10-2011/ Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:04:55 GMT Tower of Babel This morning I will be preaching through Genesis 11:1-9, the Tower of Babel story.  Below I share with you a devotional by R.C. Sproul concerning the Tower of Babel.  I will cover much of this in my se... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-10-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-10-2011/ Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:03:17 GMT “…the men said to them, ‘Why do you seek the living among the dead?  He is not here, but has risen.  Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-10--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-10--2011/ Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:01:01 GMT It may be helpful for people to know that all of Japan was not devastated by the giant earthquake and the following tidal wave that struck off the coast of an area north of Tokyo where several nuclear power plants were located.  By this ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-3--2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-april-3--2011/ Sun, 03 Apr 2011 20:35:51 GMT With all the attention being paid to Japan and its powerful earthquakes and tsunamis, plus what is going on in the mid-east, the island of Cuba hasn’t demanded much of our attention lately.  Little notice has been taken of the growth ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-3-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-april-3-2011/ Sun, 03 Apr 2011 20:34:01 GMT “Praise the Lord!  Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens!  Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness!  Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-3-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-april-3-2011/ Sun, 03 Apr 2011 20:33:38 GMT Last week we took a group of 21 teenagers to the Ligonier National Conference.  This is the largest number of teens we have taken to Ligonier and it was a great year for a good turnout.  The teens (as well as several adults from our ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-27-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-27-2011/ Sun, 27 Mar 2011 13:52:16 GMT The week in Nagoya is ended; the lectures completed; graduation over.  Here are a few brief comments about the seminary where I spent the week. Michael Oh and his family moved to Japan in 2004 intent on establishing a training center for ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-27-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-27-2011/ Sun, 27 Mar 2011 13:47:01 GMT “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.  For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”  -2 Corinthians 3:18 We ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-20-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-20-2011/ Sun, 20 Mar 2011 19:54:31 GMT Following up on last week’s Pastor’s Letter in which I quote John Piper at length, I came across another article (extended quote!) of his that I found encouraging.  Dr. Piper will be at the Ligonier Conference this year and I ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-20-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-20-2011/ Sun, 20 Mar 2011 19:53:04 GMT “Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.  And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”   -Ephesians 5:17-18  Pastor Drew is continuing ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-20-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-20-2011/ Sun, 20 Mar 2011 19:49:27 GMT When you read this (allowing for the difference in time), I shall be worshipping in one of the member churches of the Japan Presbyterian Church, a denomination I had a part in forming many years ago.  Five years ago I was invited to attend ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-13-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-13-2011/ Sun, 13 Mar 2011 19:27:37 GMT Are There Two Wills in God?  I came across this essay by John Piper entitled, “Are There Two Wills in God?” In it he addresses the complexity of God’s emotions.  It gets you thinking!  Here is an ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-13-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-13-2011/ Sun, 13 Mar 2011 19:26:06 GMT “On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’  When he had said this, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-13-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-13-2011/ Sun, 13 Mar 2011 19:24:58 GMT Chances are that your calendar takes note of it.  And if you have missed it thus far, there will be other reminders, most of them green.  On Thursday of this week lots of people will celebrate not just Patrick’s Day but St. ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-6-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-march-6-2011/ Sun, 06 Mar 2011 17:18:32 GMT Last week’s World Changers was about that famous German, Martin Luther.  This week focuses on another German who lost his life at Flossenburg Concentration Camp on April 9, 1945.  His body was burned in a pile of other bodies, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-6-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-march-6-2011/ Sun, 06 Mar 2011 17:16:44 GMT The Future Determines the Past As I have been making my way through Genesis you will have noticed that much of my interpretation is influenced by the person and work of Christ.  That is, I interpret the Old Testament in light of the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-6-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-march-6-2011/ Sun, 06 Mar 2011 17:16:18 GMT “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”       -Genesis 1:27   Scripture teaches that God made man and woman in His own image, so that ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-27-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-27-2011/ Sun, 27 Feb 2011 16:55:48 GMT As we begin the flood narrative, I thought I would provide you with some information that has proved illuminating as I have studied the book.  This is taken from Sidney Greidanus’ book “Preaching Christ from Genesis.” He ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-27-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-27-2011/ Sun, 27 Feb 2011 16:46:11 GMT The date October 31, the last day of that month, we remember every year as Reformation Day.  That’s when Luther posted his ninety-five theses on the great wooden door of Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517.  What we ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-27-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-27-2011/ Sun, 27 Feb 2011 16:41:33 GMT “When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?” Psalm 8:3,4 As Pastor Drew ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-20-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-20-2011/ Sun, 20 Feb 2011 16:54:15 GMT How Did Everything Fit on the Ark? As we begin looking at the flood narrative over the next two weeks, there are some questions that I will not spend time answering during the sermon.  One of those questions is, since there are millions of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-20-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-20-2011/ Sun, 20 Feb 2011 16:52:03 GMT “For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.  Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-20-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-20-2011/ Fri, 18 Feb 2011 16:50:45 GMT Every now and then we receive a report from Greg Miseyko, chairman of the Finance Committee, regarding our church’s financial situation.  With little exception, Greg includes in his report how well we give as a congregation.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-13-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-13-2011/ Sun, 13 Feb 2011 15:34:08 GMT Tomorrow is THE day we’ve all been waiting for.  Flowers, candy, gifts, expressions of love – all because it is Valentine’s Day.  But does anyone know where this day came from?  How does it draw so much attention ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-13-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-13-2011/ Sun, 13 Feb 2011 14:59:36 GMT As we begin the flood narrative, I thought I would provide you with some information that has proved illuminating as I have studied the book.  This is taken from Sidney Greidanus’ book “Preaching Christ from Genesis.” He ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-6-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-february-6-2011/ Sun, 06 Feb 2011 15:17:44 GMT Four years ago, this month, Decision magazine featured an article by Dr. Billy Graham titled “It Only Takes One.”  I was so struck by the contents of the article that I saved it and now will try to summarize some of the thoughts ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-6-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-february-6-2011/ Sun, 06 Feb 2011 14:58:12 GMT Back to Genesis: This morning we begin again our sermon series through the first 11 chapters of Genesis.  We are presently in chapter six, the story of the flood.  Since we have been out of Genesis for over two months, I thought it ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-6-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-february-6-2011/ Sun, 06 Feb 2011 14:54:26 GMT   “For by grace you have been saved through faith.  And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works,so that no one may boast.”    -Ephesians 2:8, 9   Today, Pastor Drew ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-30-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-30-2011/ Sun, 30 Jan 2011 15:57:36 GMT Some days our attention may be brought to think about friends or relatives serving in our armed forces.  Some times this leads us to pray for them.  When we do, we often pray for their physical safety.  Too rarely do we pray for ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-30-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-30-2011/ Sun, 30 Jan 2011 15:54:56 GMT “In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”  -1 John 4:10  Today is “Friendship Sunday,” and you may be here at the invitation of a ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-30-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-30-2011/ Sun, 30 Jan 2011 15:30:05 GMT The Sanctity of Life Last Sunday was sanctity of life Sunday and I thought this article by R.C. Sproul would remind us of the atrocity that is abortion:  “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-23-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-23-2011/ Sun, 23 Jan 2011 20:17:13 GMT Friendship Sunday and Church Picnic! – Coming Next Week!   Next Sunday is an exciting day for the church!  The Sunday morning worship service will be one of our new Friendship Sunday outreach services.  Pastor DiNardo will ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-23-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-23-2011/ Sun, 23 Jan 2011 20:15:34 GMT Monday night is a busy time at our church.  If you were to drop by, chances are you wouldn’t recognize many of the faces you see.  Most are strangers to us.  They don’t attend our worship services, small groups, or any ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-23-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-23-2011/ Sun, 23 Jan 2011 20:14:08 GMT “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-16-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-16-2011/ Sun, 16 Jan 2011 15:33:08 GMT Less than a month ago we reported Mission Faith Promises for 2011.  We were so impressed and thankful that God had prompted us to promise - $126,000 for 2011, $20,000 more than our current obligations to our 21 Missionary Associates and one ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-16-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-16-2011/ Sun, 16 Jan 2011 15:28:49 GMT Worship and Evangelism  Revelation 4-5 gives five verses revealing the worship of God in heaven:  The four living creatures say, “Holy, Holy, Holy . . .” Revelation 4:8 The four creatures and elders say, “Worthy ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-16-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-16-2011/ Sun, 16 Jan 2011 15:25:52 GMT “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!  This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-9-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-9-2011/ Sun, 09 Jan 2011 15:14:46 GMT Revelation Review The Book of Revelation is written in an ancient Apocalyptic Style of literature.  Revelation’s style is not new to the Bible but follows the pattern of the Old Testament Apocalyptic books including Ezekiel, Daniel, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-9-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-9-2011/ Sun, 09 Jan 2011 15:11:03 GMT Who of us thinks of him or herself as a World Changer?  Most have a hard enough time effecting change in themselves, without thinking of what it means to change one’s household, business, community, much less the world.  World ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-9-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-9-2011/ Sun, 09 Jan 2011 15:08:27 GMT “After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-2-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-january-2-2011/ Sun, 02 Jan 2011 23:43:16 GMT God’s Love-Letter  This morning we finish our series on Christmas Through Mary’s Eyes.  Mary, as we have seen, was truly blessed.  As Elizabeth exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, ...” ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-2-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-january-2-2011/ Sun, 02 Jan 2011 19:37:29 GMT “Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, ‘Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-2-2011/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-january-2-2011/ Sun, 02 Jan 2011 19:35:33 GMT For the wives it was a special time of reflection.  It was quite possible they all could become widows as a result of this effort.  Betty Elliot, Jim’s wife, even wondered, Will this be the last time I’ll help him ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-december-19-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-december-19-2010/ Sun, 26 Dec 2010 18:52:32 GMT We were treated this past week to a very fine rendering of Handel’s Messiah.  If my memory serves me, this is the first time for our church to attempt such a feat, at least in more recent years.  And what a feat it was.  As ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-december-19-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-december-19-2010/ Sun, 19 Dec 2010 18:55:16 GMT  “When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us…” -Luke 2:15, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-december-19-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-december-19-2010/ Sun, 19 Dec 2010 18:53:46 GMT A Sermon by Martin Luther - Part 2 Here is another portion of Martin Luther’s Sermon from Christmas Day, December 25, 1530: In my sin, my death, I must take leave of all created things.  No, sun, moon, stars, all creatures, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-december-12-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-december-12-2010/ Sun, 12 Dec 2010 18:49:21 GMT It’s that time of year. Giving and receiving takes center stage.  And what we experienced these last few weeks was a most significant expression of giving.  This is in  reference to our Mission Faith Promise giving.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-december-12-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-december-12-2010/ Sun, 12 Dec 2010 18:47:43 GMT A Sermon by Martin Luther - Part 1  This week I share with you a portion of Martin Luther’s Christmas Day Sermon (December 25, 1530) from Luke 2:1-14.  Let us be reminded of the importance of Mary’s son:  “This ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-december-12-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-december-12-2010/ Sun, 12 Dec 2010 18:46:19 GMT “And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you news of a great joy that will be for all the people.”                              ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-december-5-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-december-5-2010/ Sun, 05 Dec 2010 17:54:01 GMT Church planting has accompanied the advance of the gospel throughout the past twenty centuries.  Whenever missionaries have carried the good news of Jesus Christ into new cultures and communities, and people have responded in faith, new ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-december-5-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-december-5-2010/ Sun, 05 Dec 2010 17:48:14 GMT Last week I shared a section from George Whitefield’s Sermon entitled Contemplating Christmas.  Here is more from that sermon: Let me now conclude, my dear brethren, with a few words of exhortation, beseeching you to think of the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-december-5-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-december-5-2010/ Fri, 03 Dec 2010 17:50:02 GMT “And a Redeemer will come to Zion, to those in Jacob who turn from transgression,”   declares the Lord.”       -Isaiah 59:20   O Come, O Come, Emmanuel is probably the oldest Christmas ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-28-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-28-2010/ Sun, 28 Nov 2010 19:23:23 GMT ChristmasThis Sunday we begin the Advent Season.  The word advent is Latin for ‘coming’ or arrival.  It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas day.  It is a time that focuses our attention on the birth of Jesus ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-21-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-21-2010/ Sun, 21 Nov 2010 19:22:25 GMT Dear Congregation,  It’s hard for me to believe that two and a half years have already passed since I became music minister at FPC.  I’m also amazed that this will be my third December with you, with all of the Advent ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-november-14-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-november-14-2010/ Sun, 14 Nov 2010 16:40:53 GMT We are privileged to have speakers like Michael Oh, Dony St. Germain, Al Barth and Brad Hunter this year at our missions conference.  They are taking time out of their busy schedules to be with us to help us grasp some of the important ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-november-14-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-november-14-2010/ Sun, 14 Nov 2010 16:39:38 GMT “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.”   ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-14-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-14-2010/ Sun, 14 Nov 2010 16:34:22 GMT Today is the last day of our mission conference. It is hard to keep our focus on the world.  The flags, the banners, the bulletin covers all help to remind us we are an Intentional Missionary Congregation but most of that will be gone by ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-november-7-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-november-7-2010/ Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:29:58 GMT God’s Global Canvas.  How does this conference theme strike you?  What is God doing in our world is another way of asking the same question.  In this day of iphones, ipads, etc. and all the means available to us for swift ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-november-7-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-november-7-2010/ Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:27:08 GMT “May he have dominion from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth!  May desert tribes bow down before him, and his enemies lick the dust!  May the kings of Tarshish and of the coastlands render him tribute; may ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-7-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-november-7-2010/ Sun, 07 Nov 2010 13:24:31 GMT Dear Congregation, As we begin our FPC Annual Missions Conference for 2011, let me share a quote from John Piper’s book, Let the Nations Be Glad. Piper writes:  Missions is not the ultimate goal of the Church.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-31-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-31-2010/ Sun, 31 Oct 2010 16:17:32 GMT Thank You I wanted to thank you for your encouragement and appreciation during “Pastor Appreciation Month”.  Your notes, cards, and kind words confirm the truthfulness that “gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-31-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-31-2010/ Sun, 31 Oct 2010 16:15:57 GMT “For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’”      -Romans 1:17   THE PROTESTANT REFORMATION: Part II As we saw ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-31-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-31-2010/ Fri, 29 Oct 2010 16:13:58 GMT Since the focus of this little column is on World Changers, we can hardly do less than give attention to Martin Luther who had a hand in changing the world like few others. Martin was born on November 10, 1483, in a peasant family in the town ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-24-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-24-2010/ Sun, 24 Oct 2010 16:21:27 GMT “Five hundred miles down, 19,500 to go.”  So writes Michael Oh as he flew from Philadelphia to Atlanta, on to Johannesburg and finally to Cape Town, South Africa for what Christianity Today calls “The Most Diverse ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-24-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-24-2010/ Sun, 24 Oct 2010 16:02:43 GMT “‘Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.’  Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due.  And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-24-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-24-2010/ Sun, 24 Oct 2010 16:01:01 GMT Martin Luther In his booklet on the 95 Theses, Church Historian Dr. Stephen Nichols tells the story that one evening Martin Luther, while walking the streets of Wittenberg, happened upon a parishioner who was lying drunk in the gutter.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-17-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-17-2010/ Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:16:45 GMT The Diamonds of Heaven! Below I provide some words by Charles Spurgeon on the topic of prayer.  Spurgeon paints a picture of prayer that is both poetic and poignant, helping us see the privilege that is ours in approaching the throne of ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-17-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-17-2010/ Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:05:35 GMT “What man can live and never see death? Who can deliver his soul from the power of Sheol?” -Psalm 89:48 One of the inescapable realities of life is that since the Fall of Adam and Eve, and despite our best efforts, our desire to ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-17-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-17-2010/ Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:03:14 GMT Tuesday, January 12, 2010, will reign in the memory of every living Haitian.  A magnitude 7.0 earthquake shook the country from its center, close to the capital of Port Au Prince.  An estimated 289,000 buildings and residences ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-10-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-10-2010/ Sun, 10 Oct 2010 18:18:50 GMT The theme of this year’s annual missions conference is “God’s Global Canvas.”  The point is, of course, to gain a new grasp, a clearer vision, a greater understanding of what the Lord is doing in this world.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-10-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-10-2010/ Sun, 10 Oct 2010 18:17:28 GMT “Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?”  God said ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-10-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-10-2010/ Sun, 10 Oct 2010 17:29:41 GMT Join me for Prayer!  “When God intends great mercy for His people, the first thing He does is to set them a-praying.  Matthew Henry “From the Day of Pentecost, there has not been one great spiritual awakening in any ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-3-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-october-3-2010/ Sun, 03 Oct 2010 19:26:26 GMT Christ in all the Bible!  New Books have arrived in the Book Nook Several weeks ago I mentioned the importance of understanding and interpreting the Bible christocentrically.  That is, we must understand the Bible with Christ as the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-3-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-october-3-2010/ Sun, 03 Oct 2010 19:24:35 GMT “And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.  And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-3-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-october-3-2010/ Sun, 03 Oct 2010 19:22:52 GMT Our annual missions conference is a matter of weeks away.  November 7-14 is the week, the theme of this year’s conference being “God’s Global Canvas.”  This will be a time for all of us to gain a new ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-26-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-26-2010/ Sun, 26 Sep 2010 13:52:42 GMT Revival and Revivalism While I was away this past week I had the opportunity to read some of the material for my course in January on Evangelism and Mission with Dr. Steven Lawson.  The book I read was entitled Revival and Revivalism by ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-26-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-26-2010/ Sun, 26 Sep 2010 11:37:23 GMT It may come as no little surprise to know that one of our own Missionary Associates is campus minister on the largest university in the U.S.  That’s right.  I was told recently that the student body of the University of Central ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-26-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-26-2010/ Fri, 24 Sep 2010 11:38:57 GMT Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving…Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!    ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-19-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-19-2010/ Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:14:12 GMT Just one week ago this nation remembered September 11, 2001, and those who died on that day.  A less well-known fact is that Wheaton College’s Student Center is named in honor of Todd Beamer, a graduate of Wheaton and a passenger on ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-19-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-19-2010/ Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:11:03 GMT “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.  For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror.  For he looks at himself and goes ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-19-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-19-2010/ Sun, 19 Sep 2010 19:09:12 GMT He’s got to be one of a kind.  One of our Missionary Associates since 1993, Rusty Wright has a ministry unlike anyone else we know.  He is a writer but a writer on the Internet, writing to help people find Jesus and helping ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-12-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-12-2010/ Sun, 12 Sep 2010 12:31:05 GMT “In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”                                 ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-12-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-12-2010/ Sun, 12 Sep 2010 12:30:38 GMT Think “God’s Global Canvas.”  That is the theme of this year’s missions conference coming up in a matter of weeks.  We’re always in need of being informed about what God is doing in this world, especially ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-5-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-september-5-2010/ Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:33:22 GMT The “Who” of Worship I was reading through some old Pastor’s Letters and came across this one from Pastor Rick.   It is an excellent explanation about the ‘who’ of worship and thus the reason why worship is ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-5-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-september-5-2010/ Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:32:46 GMT “God looks down from heaven on the children of man to see if there are any who understand, who seek after God.  They have all fallen away; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one.” ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-5-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-september-5-2010/ Fri, 03 Sep 2010 12:32:01 GMT All of us know that tomorrow is Labor Day.  It means a long weekend, a day at the beach, no school, a day free of usual responsibilities.   All of that being true, how many of us are aware that at sundown Wednesday, just two days ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-29-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-29-2010/ Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:35:05 GMT Ten weeks ago many may remember that as a congregation we commissioned the team we were sending to Fairmont, West Virginia, for a week of service/ministry.  A very mixed group of seventeen signed to go – one couple, four fathers with ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-29-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-29-2010/ Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:34:44 GMT “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”        ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-29-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-29-2010/ Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:34:11 GMT Last week we commissioned our CSCA teachers.  This week we would like to recognize and pray for our Sunday school teachers, as well as anyone who is teaching at other schools beside our own. Teachers are an integral part of the life of any ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-22-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-22-2010/ Sun, 22 Aug 2010 12:36:25 GMT How many churches do you know that operate a Christian School?  How many churches do you know that in less than four years after opening their doors began a preschool ministry?  That preschool begun just thirty-nine years ago with ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-22-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-22-2010/ Sun, 22 Aug 2010 12:35:59 GMT “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!  Serve the Lord with gladness!  Come into his presence with singing!  Know that the Lord, he is God!  It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-22-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-22-2010/ Sun, 22 Aug 2010 12:35:28 GMT Join us this Evening…..   Tonight we will be holding our second Annual Celebration.  Our annual celebration is an opportunity for us to celebrate God’s faithfulness to us and consider the year ahead.  This ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-15-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-15-2010/ Sun, 15 Aug 2010 12:37:40 GMT Preaching Christ from all of Scripture As a follow-up to last week’s sermon I wanted to share with you a few comments concerning the ‘Christ-centeredness’ of Scripture.  I will also provide titles of books that are very ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-15-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-15-2010/ Sun, 15 Aug 2010 12:37:17 GMT “And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb. And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-15-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-15-2010/ Sun, 15 Aug 2010 12:36:48 GMT As you think about the people who attend our church each Sunday, how many can guess what age group is the largest in our church, 20’s and 30’s, 40’s and 50’s, or 60 and over?  The correct answer - the 40’s and ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-8-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-8-2010/ Sun, 08 Aug 2010 12:38:49 GMT As we begin the second year of our ESL ministry I wanted to draw your attention to an article that can be found in our denomination’s Mission to North America magazine, ‘Multiply’ (Fall 2010).  Having heard the buzz around ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-8-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-8-2010/ Sun, 08 Aug 2010 12:38:09 GMT There is hardly a prayer that is prayed publically in our church that doesn’t include a request for more finances.  Almost every one of Sunday’s worship  bulletins has a sentence, usually in bold print, about the need for ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-1-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-august-1-2010/ Sun, 01 Aug 2010 12:40:39 GMT Becoming a Church Member  This Sunday we have the joy of receiving new members into our church.  Church membership is a vital part of our Christian commitment.  It says to the world that we are willing to give of ourselves both ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-1-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-august-1-2010/ Sun, 01 Aug 2010 12:39:52 GMT “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment.  And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless.  Then the king ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-1-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-august-1-2010/ Sun, 01 Aug 2010 12:39:22 GMT Brad Hunter, who with his family has ministered in Vienna, Austria for the past three years, visited us this past Sunday evening for our prayer service.  He and Stacey are here for a month or two so that Brad can attend to his mother whose ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-25-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-25-2010/ Sun, 25 Jul 2010 12:42:39 GMT Rick Steves, the well-known travel guide, was writing one of his commentaries on his travels this past week.  He titled it, “A Sunday for the Senses.”  “Dear Traveler,” he wrote, “As I walked out of my ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-25-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-25-2010/ Sun, 25 Jul 2010 12:42:10 GMT “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.  And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-25-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-25-2010/ Sun, 25 Jul 2010 12:41:39 GMT The Alpha, Mu, Omega Challenge!  As the Apostle Paul’s life neared its end, he gave this solemn charge to Timothy:  I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-18-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-18-2010/ Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:44:12 GMT What does it mean to be a Presbyterian Church?  General Assembly meeting in Nashville is just weeks past, and the Southern Florida Presbytery  scheduled to meet in two days which tells us that the question is always before us, if, that ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-18-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-18-2010/ Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:43:43 GMT “Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay everyone for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” -Revelation 22:12, 13  One of the most ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-18-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-18-2010/ Sun, 18 Jul 2010 12:43:12 GMT Matthew 28:19 “Therefore Go”  City Light Young Adults ministry will be taking a missions trip to Haiti this November 18-24.  We will be going with MTW (Mission to the World).  They have recently teamed up with ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-11-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-11-2010/ Sun, 11 Jul 2010 12:46:46 GMT Understanding Revelation A seven headed red dragon seeking to devour a baby as he comes out of his mother’s womb, horrifying beasts rising from the earth and sea, locusts with tails like scorpions rising from the abyss making people wish ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-11-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-11-2010/ Sun, 11 Jul 2010 12:46:14 GMT “He who comes from above is above all.  He who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way.  He who comes from heaven is above all.  He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-11-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-11-2010/ Sun, 11 Jul 2010 12:45:49 GMT Last Sunday, July 4th, World Changers suggested that because of all the friends and family gatherings that were planned, this would be a good time to reflect on the joy of being with other believers and how important this is for each of us as we ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-4-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-july-4-2010/ Sun, 04 Jul 2010 12:48:33 GMT Summer Time Challenge  Summer is here and it is going fast.  School has been out for a month and all our favorite shows have ended ’till the fall.  What have we done to fill the time?  Here is a list of things that we ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-4-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-july-4-2010/ Sun, 04 Jul 2010 12:47:56 GMT July 4th falling on a Sunday – can you believe it?  How will the majority of us celebrate the day?  I expect that for many it will mean gathering with others, family and friends, just to talk, eat, and especially to enjoy being ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-4-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-july-4-2010/ Sun, 04 Jul 2010 12:47:22 GMT “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-27-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-27-2010/ Sun, 27 Jun 2010 12:50:25 GMT I believe that we (myself included) often underestimate the power of the Word of God preached.  I’m not speaking here about powerful preachers (there are only a few in each generation).  Rather, when the word of God is faithfully ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-27-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-27-2010/ Sun, 27 Jun 2010 12:49:35 GMT “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.”                     -Galatians ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-27-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-27-2010/ Sun, 27 Jun 2010 12:48:59 GMT It happens but once each year when teaching and ruling elders from PCA churches gather from all over the United States.  These people come each summer to conduct church business and enjoy worship, fellowship, networking, and training.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-20-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-20-2010/ Sun, 20 Jun 2010 12:57:59 GMT “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!  For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand”               -Psalm 95:6, ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-20-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-20-2010/ Sun, 20 Jun 2010 12:52:21 GMT Happy Father’s Day Fathers, (and all men for that matter), here are some verses for reflection this Father’s Day.  May our Heavenly Father encourage your hearts as you seek to faithfully serve Him.    1 Chronicles ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-20-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-20-2010/ Sun, 20 Jun 2010 12:51:44 GMT We made a promise this past Sunday.  We promised to pray for team members who are in Fairmont, West Virginia, this very morning, worshipping with over two hundred people just like them, who have come to do the same kind of work.  ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-13-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/pastors-letter-june-13-2010/ Sun, 13 Jun 2010 12:59:11 GMT On the cover of Tolle Lege {Pick Up and Read}, the Reformation Heritage Books magazine was the following advice for wandering minds. I found it very helpful: Wisdom for Distracted Souls During times of personal or public worship, do you find ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-13-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/about-our-worship-june-13-2010/ Sun, 13 Jun 2010 12:58:33 GMT “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.”                     ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-13-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-13-2010/ Fri, 11 Jun 2010 12:59:45 GMT What must it take to put a summer short term trip together? Jim Walls, team leader, can tell you what he has been through, and the trip hasn’t even started yet.  September 14, 2009, was when the first of a stream of emails began. ... http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-6-2010/ http://www.fpcmargate.org/pastors-blog/world-changers-june-6-2010/ Fri, 04 Jun 2010 13:00:24 GMT Summer began officially this past Tuesday and this means a lot of different things to a lot of different people.  Vacation time stands at the top of most of our lists, even a more relaxed pace or reduced hours for others.  Weekly ...