May 4, 2013 - Church at Worship

Sermon: "It’s Who You Know"- Lee Venden - 1st service
"Born Twice"- Lee Venden - 2nd service

Pastoral Welcome: Bernard Taylor

Children’s Feature: Marji Venden

Meditation:

“The greatest deception of the human mind in Christ's day was that a mere assent to the truth constitutes righteousness.  Many take it for granted that they are Christians, simply because they subscribe to certain theological tenets. Men may profess faith in the truth; but sinful men can become righteous only as they have faith in God and maintain a vital connection with Him.”  - Desire of Ages, p. 309

Scripture Reading: John 17:3, TNIV1, John 3:1–4, TNIV2-Regan Couture, Ashley Rose Kirk

Sermon Notes:

It’s an indisputable fact that who you know makes a difference. If you’re looking for employment
and you’re acquainted with the boss, you have an advantage. If you’re brought into court and you
know the judge, it’s good news.

Jesus said, “This is the way to have eternal life –to know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ,
the one You sent to earth.” –John 17:3 NLT

Knowing Jesus means something more than knowing about Him or believing He exists. It is not
more information about Jesus that we need. We need Jesus! Jesus has time and attention for you
personally! He cares about the entire human race, but He is specifically interested in you! Are you
taking time to become better acquainted with Him each day?

“It would be well for us to spend thoughtful time every day contemplating the life of Christ. We
should take it point by point, and let the imagination grasp each scene, especially the closing ones.
As we dwell upon His great sacrifice for us, our confidence in Him will be more constant, our love
will grow, and we will be more deeply filled with His Spirit.” –Desire of Ages, p. 83

When I was in college, a professor told our class, “I hope you leave school with more than a
degree. A degree is not a very companionable thing to come home to. I hope you leave with a
Christian spouse. That will bring more joy than any number of degrees!”

I met the girl I married, at that university. The best thing I got out of college was a person! The best
thing in all the Bible is a Person! Righteousness is a Person, not a quality. Salvation is a Person,
not a goal. Forgiveness is a Person, not a theory. Peace comes from a Person, not a proper understanding of theological issues. Do you know Him?

Lee Venden, Speaker
All About Jesus Seminar