Welcome to
SCHEDULE OF SERVICES
ANNOUNCEMENTS
9: 30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m.
Bible Study Morning Worship Afternoon Worship Morning Bible Study Evening Bible Study
►Master Plan: to pr esen t sem i-annually to the congregation the physical and mon-
4th Sunday
2:00 p.m.
Ladies Class Men Training Class
TBA
2:00 p.m.
Youth Devotion
Committees. ►We look forward to keeping the congregation informed on the status of these actions and will continue to make available copies of our weekly progress with their Action Items and those responsible for implementing them. As we move forward, we will now begin devoting more time and effort to identifying the opportunities for improving our facilities and campus to support and better serve our membership.
Sunday
Wednesday
etary growth of the congregation. At each meeting of the faithful brethren and ministries groups the Master Plan will be discussed – reviewed and the remaining Transition Statements with their accompanying Action Items will be implemented. This means we will now begin pursuing and following up on all of these Action Items in Phase 1 of our Building Revitalization program. Many of those Action Items presented at the previous meetings have already begun being implemented or acted on by the designated
►Following the Fifth Sunday Worship we will have a Fellowship Lunch, VBS Kick off ORDER of SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS *** CALL TO WORSHIP *** RESPONSIVE READING *** OPENING PRAYER *** SCRIPTURE READING *** SERMON *** COMMUNION *** OFFERING *** GUEST RECOGNITION ***
BENEDICTION ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________
SERMON NOTES
______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________
and “Facility Visioning” session. This will be an opportunity for VBS registration and for members to express their ideas regarding the future of our facilities. Please make an effort to attend and contribute your thoughts as we move forward with this process.
Welcome to Rock Springs Road
Church of Christ
Our plan this year is twofold. First, it is to develop a stronger form of communication with the congregation about ministry activities, as they impact our church family. All active ministries will continue to meet every third Saturday of each month, and the ministries plans will be shared with the congregation the following week. This will allow every member to know firsthand the activities of each ministry and their plans for the congregation. This is one of several methods we will use to foster better communication. Second, our plan is to work to develop more fully the spiritual direction of our ministries and members. This will be accomplished through stronger development of our weekly spiritual formation opportunities. In order to strengthen our church family, we will divide the changes into the following: organization, communication and connection. TBC
Join Us in Worship Let the people praise thee, O God; Let all the people praise thee. Psalm 67:3
► A Call to Encourage: Please call to en cour age the follow in g m em ber s. Matthew Ellis, Tiffany Robinson, Clevelan Buggs, Shavonne Ciara, Kawanna Robinson, SCHEDULE OF ASSEMBLIES Worship: Sunday 10: 30 am –Sunday 3:00 pm Bible Class: Wednesday 11:00 am - Wednesday 7:00 pm
You are truly our honored guest. Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to visit with us today. We look forward to your next visit.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT ►Senior Round-up 2nd Saturday 10:00am—12:00pm ►Ladies Nursing Home Visit –4th Sat. @ 11:00 ► Ladies Bible Study— 4th Sunday @ 2:00 PM. ► Men’s Training 4th Sunday @ 2:00pm
► Youth Sunday Every Fourth Sunday: We are encouraging our young men to work in various aspects of the worship services. Duty assignment will be made during our 9:00 Sunday morning devotion. See Bro. Barnes. with any questions.
May 24, 2015
Volume 4 Number 20
Dr. Nelson V. Hare, Evangelist/ Teacher 6481 Rock Springs Road Lithonia, GA 30038 (770) 482-9724 Fax 770 482-9714
The Parables of Jesus "He began to teach them many things in parables." (Mark 4:2), J esus used simple word-pictures, called parables, to help people understand who God is and what his kingdom or reign is like. The word parable is a transliteration of the Greek word “parabole” (parabow-LAY), and comes from two Greek words, “para” (translated “beside”) and “ballein” (translated “to throw”). Literally, the word parable means “to throw beside,” or “to place beside, or to place together for the purpose of comparing, or making a comparison.” They can usually be identified by the use of the word “like,” as in Jesus’ statement, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed,” or “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven” (Matthew 13:31, 33). In these examples, Jesus was comparing the kingdom of heaven to the attributes or characteristics of a mustard seed and to leaven (yeast). A parable is a word-picture which uses an image or story to illustrate a truth or lesson. It creates a mini-drama in picture language that describes the reality being illustrated. It shows a likeness between the image of an illustration and the object being portrayed. It defines the unknown by using the known. It helps the listener to discover the deeper meaning and underlying truth of the reality being portrayed. It can be a figure of speech or comparison, such as “the kingdom of God ...is like a mustard seed ..or like yeast” (Luke 13:19, 21). More commonly it is a short story told to bring out a lesson or moral. Jesus used simple stories or images to convey important truths about God and his kingdom, and lessons pertaining to the way of life and happiness which God has for us. They commonly feature examples or illustrations from daily life in ancient Palestine, such as mustard seeds and fig trees, wineskins and oil lamps, money and treasure, stewards, workers, judges, and homemakers, wedding parties and children's games. Jesus' audience would be very familiar with these illustrations from everyday life. Jesus' parables have a double meaning. First, there is the literal meaning, apparent to anyone who has experience with the subject matter. But beyond the literal meaning lies a deeper meaning – a beneath-the-surface lesson about God's truth and his kingdom. For example, the parable of the leaven (Matt. 13:33) describes the simple transformation of dough into bread by the inclusion of the yeast. In like manner, we are transformed by God's kingdom when we allow his word and Spirit to take root in our hearts. And in turn we are called to be leaven that transforms the society in which we live and work. Jesus' parables often involve an element of surprise or an unexpected twist. The parable moves from the very familiar and understandable aspects of experience to a sudden turn of events or a remarkable comparison which challenges the hearer and invites further reflection. For example, why should a shepherd go through a lot of bother and even risk his life to find one lost sheep when ninety-nine are in his safe keeping? The shepherd's concern for one lost sheep and his willingness to risk his own life for it tells us a lot about God's concern for his children who go astray.
DeAnthony Elder a 2015 graduate of Alcovy High School planes to attend Georgia State University as a member of GSU first wrestling club. He plans to major in Dentistry. DeAanthony has been a
faithful working brother of the Rock Springs Rd congregation for over 9 years.
We are very proud of you DeAnthony. We wish you much success and never forget the teaching you were taught and let God always be your guide. Rock Springs Road Family THIS WEEKS’ HEALTHY TIP #15 . . .” Make it Easy on your Wallet! Certain foods are typical low-cost options all year round. Try beans for a less expensive protein food. For vegetables, buy carrots, greens, or potatoes. As for fruits, apples and bananas are good choices.
► July 20th~25th, the 38th ANNUAL SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FOR CHRIST CONFERENCE at Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA. ►
June 27th, the ladies of Shumate Street Church of Christ in Quitman, invites you to their LADIES DAY. Theme, “Be Not Dismayed, Believe God Can Do Anything!” (Isaiah 41:10). Continental Breakfast 8:00-8:45am, Program 9:00am- 12:00 noon
► August 30th, the Church of Christ @ Chapel Hill, Macon, GA
(formerly Houston Avenue) invites you to experience “MY BROTHER’S KEEPER” Youth Sunday. This effort is to organize opportunities to bring our young people together, because we believe t will strengthen them in their Christian faith and life, as they share and learn from each other
► The CofC at Bouldercrest invites ladies to attend their Ladies Retreat August 27- 30 at The Omni Amelia Island Resort just off the coast of Florida. For more information visit www.bouldercrestcoc.com or call 404-622-4212. ► August 26th, Courtland Avenue Church of Christ in Quitman, GA will host their 81st ANNIVERSARY & HOMECOMING CELEBRATION.
The VBS Excitement Is Growing
Date: Saturday, June 6th at 8:30 am to 3:00 pm VBS is for all ages Theme: Fellowship and Family Location: Church of Christ 6481 Rock Springs Rd, Lithonia Ga. 30038 Phone: (770) 482-9724 8:30-9:00 Registration, Continental Breakfast, Devotion Lunch will be pro-
► June 19th, Faulkner University will sponsor the 24th ANNUAL CHURCH OF CHRIST DAY at Six Flags in Atlanta, GA. Group Tickets only $41 per person.
vided
► THE 2015 NATIONAL CRUSADE FOR CHRIST Plans have been made tp host the 2015 NATIONAL CRUSADE FOR CHRIST in SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, AUGUST 22-27, 2015. This is the largest and most attended event in our brotherhood as Christians from across the nation converge to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and model His Spirit through service and ministry in the community. EVERY CHRISTIAN should make plans to meet the saints in San Antonio as we work together to fulfill the Will of the Lord as stated in THE GREAT COMMISSION!
► The Church of Christ United in Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual
Songs, A Worship and Praise Experience, Sat., June 13, 7:00 pm, Camp Creek Church of Christ, 2400 Merk Road, Atlanta 30331.
Welcome again to our new sister in Christ. Brenda Johnson of Lithonia GA..
► Join Bro. Esona and myself in our June Bible Class as we search for Truth. For the month of June we will use the Emmaus account in Luke 24, to examine the topic of PRAYER, while we address many of the same nagging questions that pledge His disciples. Why didn’t those two downcast disciples of Jesus (Yeshua) recognize Him immediately when He happened upon them?
►E very Wednesday @ Rock Springs Rd., is our mid-weekBible study and opportunity
for adults, teens and children to own their faith through Bible study, classes and connection with members and friends on the journey together. This service runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Beginning at 7:00 pm, there are several opportunities available including the Wednesday morning Bible group @ 11:00 am and a question and answer period after each class. Our Goal for the 3rd quarter will be to provide the following: Live streaming for Sunday Service at 10:30 am & 3:00 pm Live streaming for Wed. Morning Bible Study @ 11:00 am Live streaming for Wed. Night Bible Study at 7:00 pm Live streaming for Special Events and Training Sessions
Now Walk Worthy...The term walk” (peripateo—“to walk around”) refers to the entire “sphere” of one’s existence. Christianity is not a mere sideline, nor is it a spiritual “hobby.” It is a consuming passion. “Worthily” is an adverb that suggests a comparison between two objects that correspond with one another in some fashion—in this instance, both in kind and in quality. Christian conduct must measure up to the pattern imposed by God.
Go Ye, means Go ME All approved announcements for the bulletins should be placed in the folder on the Admin Office door or email Sis . Dee Elder [email protected] no later than Wednesday of each week. BULLETIN—
ANNOUNCEMENTS
9: 30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 3:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m.
Bible Study Morning Worship Afternoon Worship Morning Bible Study Evening Bible Study
►Master Plan: to pr esen t sem i-annually to the congregation the physical and mon-
4th Sunday
2:00 p.m.
Ladies Class Men Training Class
TBA
2:00 p.m.
Youth Devotion
Committees. ►We look forward to keeping the congregation informed on the status of these actions and will continue to make available copies of our weekly progress with their Action Items and those responsible for implementing them. As we move forward, we will now begin devoting more time and effort to identifying the opportunities for improving our facilities and campus to support and better serve our membership.
Sunday
Wednesday
etary growth of the congregation. At each meeting of the faithful brethren and ministries groups the Master Plan will be discussed – reviewed and the remaining Transition Statements with their accompanying Action Items will be implemented. This means we will now begin pursuing and following up on all of these Action Items in Phase 1 of our Building Revitalization program. Many of those Action Items presented at the previous meetings have already begun being implemented or acted on by the designated
►Following the Fifth Sunday Worship we will have a Fellowship Lunch, VBS Kick off ORDER of SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS *** CALL TO WORSHIP *** RESPONSIVE READING *** OPENING PRAYER *** SCRIPTURE READING *** SERMON *** COMMUNION *** OFFERING *** GUEST RECOGNITION ***
BENEDICTION ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________ ___________________
SERMON NOTES
______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________ ______________
and “Facility Visioning” session. This will be an opportunity for VBS registration and for members to express their ideas regarding the future of our facilities. Please make an effort to attend and contribute your thoughts as we move forward with this process.
Welcome to Rock Springs Road
Church of Christ
Our plan this year is twofold. First, it is to develop a stronger form of communication with the congregation about ministry activities, as they impact our church family. All active ministries will continue to meet every third Saturday of each month, and the ministries plans will be shared with the congregation the following week. This will allow every member to know firsthand the activities of each ministry and their plans for the congregation. This is one of several methods we will use to foster better communication. Second, our plan is to work to develop more fully the spiritual direction of our ministries and members. This will be accomplished through stronger development of our weekly spiritual formation opportunities. In order to strengthen our church family, we will divide the changes into the following: organization, communication and connection. TBC
Join Us in Worship Let the people praise thee, O God; Let all the people praise thee. Psalm 67:3
► A Call to Encourage: Please call to en cour age the follow in g m em ber s. Matthew Ellis, Tiffany Robinson, Clevelan Buggs, Shavonne Ciara, Kawanna Robinson, SCHEDULE OF ASSEMBLIES Worship: Sunday 10: 30 am –Sunday 3:00 pm Bible Class: Wednesday 11:00 am - Wednesday 7:00 pm
You are truly our honored guest. Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to visit with us today. We look forward to your next visit.
TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT ►Senior Round-up 2nd Saturday 10:00am—12:00pm ►Ladies Nursing Home Visit –4th Sat. @ 11:00 ► Ladies Bible Study— 4th Sunday @ 2:00 PM. ► Men’s Training 4th Sunday @ 2:00pm
► Youth Sunday Every Fourth Sunday: We are encouraging our young men to work in various aspects of the worship services. Duty assignment will be made during our 9:00 Sunday morning devotion. See Bro. Barnes. with any questions.
May 24, 2015
Volume 4 Number 20
Dr. Nelson V. Hare, Evangelist/ Teacher 6481 Rock Springs Road Lithonia, GA 30038 (770) 482-9724 Fax 770 482-9714
The Parables of Jesus "He began to teach them many things in parables." (Mark 4:2), J esus used simple word-pictures, called parables, to help people understand who God is and what his kingdom or reign is like. The word parable is a transliteration of the Greek word “parabole” (parabow-LAY), and comes from two Greek words, “para” (translated “beside”) and “ballein” (translated “to throw”). Literally, the word parable means “to throw beside,” or “to place beside, or to place together for the purpose of comparing, or making a comparison.” They can usually be identified by the use of the word “like,” as in Jesus’ statement, “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed,” or “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven” (Matthew 13:31, 33). In these examples, Jesus was comparing the kingdom of heaven to the attributes or characteristics of a mustard seed and to leaven (yeast). A parable is a word-picture which uses an image or story to illustrate a truth or lesson. It creates a mini-drama in picture language that describes the reality being illustrated. It shows a likeness between the image of an illustration and the object being portrayed. It defines the unknown by using the known. It helps the listener to discover the deeper meaning and underlying truth of the reality being portrayed. It can be a figure of speech or comparison, such as “the kingdom of God ...is like a mustard seed ..or like yeast” (Luke 13:19, 21). More commonly it is a short story told to bring out a lesson or moral. Jesus used simple stories or images to convey important truths about God and his kingdom, and lessons pertaining to the way of life and happiness which God has for us. They commonly feature examples or illustrations from daily life in ancient Palestine, such as mustard seeds and fig trees, wineskins and oil lamps, money and treasure, stewards, workers, judges, and homemakers, wedding parties and children's games. Jesus' audience would be very familiar with these illustrations from everyday life. Jesus' parables have a double meaning. First, there is the literal meaning, apparent to anyone who has experience with the subject matter. But beyond the literal meaning lies a deeper meaning – a beneath-the-surface lesson about God's truth and his kingdom. For example, the parable of the leaven (Matt. 13:33) describes the simple transformation of dough into bread by the inclusion of the yeast. In like manner, we are transformed by God's kingdom when we allow his word and Spirit to take root in our hearts. And in turn we are called to be leaven that transforms the society in which we live and work. Jesus' parables often involve an element of surprise or an unexpected twist. The parable moves from the very familiar and understandable aspects of experience to a sudden turn of events or a remarkable comparison which challenges the hearer and invites further reflection. For example, why should a shepherd go through a lot of bother and even risk his life to find one lost sheep when ninety-nine are in his safe keeping? The shepherd's concern for one lost sheep and his willingness to risk his own life for it tells us a lot about God's concern for his children who go astray.
DeAnthony Elder a 2015 graduate of Alcovy High School planes to attend Georgia State University as a member of GSU first wrestling club. He plans to major in Dentistry. DeAanthony has been a
faithful working brother of the Rock Springs Rd congregation for over 9 years.
We are very proud of you DeAnthony. We wish you much success and never forget the teaching you were taught and let God always be your guide. Rock Springs Road Family THIS WEEKS’ HEALTHY TIP #15 . . .” Make it Easy on your Wallet! Certain foods are typical low-cost options all year round. Try beans for a less expensive protein food. For vegetables, buy carrots, greens, or potatoes. As for fruits, apples and bananas are good choices.
► July 20th~25th, the 38th ANNUAL SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FOR CHRIST CONFERENCE at Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA. ►
June 27th, the ladies of Shumate Street Church of Christ in Quitman, invites you to their LADIES DAY. Theme, “Be Not Dismayed, Believe God Can Do Anything!” (Isaiah 41:10). Continental Breakfast 8:00-8:45am, Program 9:00am- 12:00 noon
► August 30th, the Church of Christ @ Chapel Hill, Macon, GA
(formerly Houston Avenue) invites you to experience “MY BROTHER’S KEEPER” Youth Sunday. This effort is to organize opportunities to bring our young people together, because we believe t will strengthen them in their Christian faith and life, as they share and learn from each other
► The CofC at Bouldercrest invites ladies to attend their Ladies Retreat August 27- 30 at The Omni Amelia Island Resort just off the coast of Florida. For more information visit www.bouldercrestcoc.com or call 404-622-4212. ► August 26th, Courtland Avenue Church of Christ in Quitman, GA will host their 81st ANNIVERSARY & HOMECOMING CELEBRATION.
The VBS Excitement Is Growing
Date: Saturday, June 6th at 8:30 am to 3:00 pm VBS is for all ages Theme: Fellowship and Family Location: Church of Christ 6481 Rock Springs Rd, Lithonia Ga. 30038 Phone: (770) 482-9724 8:30-9:00 Registration, Continental Breakfast, Devotion Lunch will be pro-
► June 19th, Faulkner University will sponsor the 24th ANNUAL CHURCH OF CHRIST DAY at Six Flags in Atlanta, GA. Group Tickets only $41 per person.
vided
► THE 2015 NATIONAL CRUSADE FOR CHRIST Plans have been made tp host the 2015 NATIONAL CRUSADE FOR CHRIST in SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS, AUGUST 22-27, 2015. This is the largest and most attended event in our brotherhood as Christians from across the nation converge to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and model His Spirit through service and ministry in the community. EVERY CHRISTIAN should make plans to meet the saints in San Antonio as we work together to fulfill the Will of the Lord as stated in THE GREAT COMMISSION!
► The Church of Christ United in Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual
Songs, A Worship and Praise Experience, Sat., June 13, 7:00 pm, Camp Creek Church of Christ, 2400 Merk Road, Atlanta 30331.
Welcome again to our new sister in Christ. Brenda Johnson of Lithonia GA..
► Join Bro. Esona and myself in our June Bible Class as we search for Truth. For the month of June we will use the Emmaus account in Luke 24, to examine the topic of PRAYER, while we address many of the same nagging questions that pledge His disciples. Why didn’t those two downcast disciples of Jesus (Yeshua) recognize Him immediately when He happened upon them?
►E very Wednesday @ Rock Springs Rd., is our mid-weekBible study and opportunity
for adults, teens and children to own their faith through Bible study, classes and connection with members and friends on the journey together. This service runs approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Beginning at 7:00 pm, there are several opportunities available including the Wednesday morning Bible group @ 11:00 am and a question and answer period after each class. Our Goal for the 3rd quarter will be to provide the following: Live streaming for Sunday Service at 10:30 am & 3:00 pm Live streaming for Wed. Morning Bible Study @ 11:00 am Live streaming for Wed. Night Bible Study at 7:00 pm Live streaming for Special Events and Training Sessions
Now Walk Worthy...The term walk” (peripateo—“to walk around”) refers to the entire “sphere” of one’s existence. Christianity is not a mere sideline, nor is it a spiritual “hobby.” It is a consuming passion. “Worthily” is an adverb that suggests a comparison between two objects that correspond with one another in some fashion—in this instance, both in kind and in quality. Christian conduct must measure up to the pattern imposed by God.
Go Ye, means Go ME All approved announcements for the bulletins should be placed in the folder on the Admin Office door or email Sis . Dee Elder [email protected] no later than Wednesday of each week. BULLETIN—
