MEMORY VERSE: Ephesians 2:8-9 “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”.
When we experience God’s grace, it profoundly changes us. It is by the grace of God that changes us in a powerful way… from the inside out. Anytime you come to God in humility, He will never reject you. It is never too late to come to Him with a humble heart.
SERMON NOTES:
“The Thief on the Cross: Last-Minute Grace”
Grace in the Bible is defined as God’s unmerited favor and kindness. It represents a fundamental aspect of God’s relationship with humanity, emphasizing that grace is a gift freely given, not earned through human effort.
Four Aspects of Biblical Grace –
1. Unmerited Favor: Grace is often described as God’s favor toward the unworthy, offering salvation and blessings without requiring merit.
2. Transformative Power: Grace transforms lives, empowering individuals to live in relationship with God.
3. Spiritual Blessings: In John 1:16, grace is depicted as a continuous flow of spiritual blessings from Christ, emphasizing abundance.
4. Foundation of Salvation: Grace is essential for understanding salvation, as it underscores that it is a gift from God rather than a result of human actions
Luke 23:32–39 Two others, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. And when they came to the place that is called The Skull, there they crucified him, and the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments.And the people stood by, watching, but the rulers scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself, if he is the Christ of God, his Chosen One!” The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.” One of the criminals who were hanged railed at him, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed justly, for we are receiving the due reward of our deeds; but this man has done nothing wrong.” And he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.”
Luke 6:45 The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.
Matthew 16:13-17 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven.
Romans 10:13 “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Ephesians 2:8-9 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.
Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Hebrews 9:27 “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.”
We invite you to join us each Wednesday at 11:30 AM for Midweek@Minnewashta Chapel Service – A PLACE TO BELONG – Favorite hymns are sung, Prayers & Praises for the people are shared, and Pastor Grant Hill delivers a short message. Communion is served the first Wednesday of each month.
During this Holy Season of Lent. Pastor is taking us through a series of some of the people who encountered Jesus during his final week – 3/25 – “Mary: The Faithful Witness”
There are items from church (many photos) that are available to take until March 18. After that, anything left will be taken to the dumpster.
Next Meal & Movie – Testament The Story of Moses: This illuminating docudrama series chronicles Moses’ remarkable life as a prince, prophet and more, with insights from theologians and historians. On March 25 – Part 2 of this Moses series – The Plagues (part 2) Moses confronts the pharaoh and demands the Hebrews be freed. But when the pharaoh refuses, a series of plagues are unleashed on Egypt.
As we are transitioning out of the building to turn the space over to Branch Church, the landline phone has been disconnected, and we are working remotely. If you have an emergency, please contact Pastor Grant Hill directly.
For non-emergency communications, use Email: churchminnewashta1@gmail.com
Follow us on facebook, & through the Website: www.minnewashtachurch.org
Remember, starting in January, Do not write a check to the church for the Missions. If you wish to donate to any of the Missions of the Month, click on the link here, to donate to them directly
March – Bountiful Basket NOTE: From March 1 through April 6, communities across the state will participate in the 45th Annual Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign – donations will be proportionately matched.
You may also wish to give to organizations of your choosing.
** We WILL still be accepting checks payable to Minnewashta Church for the General Fund & Benevolence.**