Morning Service Live Stream

This week's service dives into the complex, often messy reality of a life of faith. Using the story of Jacob’s stay with Laban in Genesis 29, the message explores how God works through our flaws, the consequences of deception, and the ultimate victory of His divine plan over the schemes of the enemy. We are reminded that being saved doesn't erase our humanity, but starts a lifelong journey of being transformed into the image of Christ.

Service Breakdown

- Worship and Music: The service begins with an energetic call to praise, featuring a "peppy" rendition of "Praise Him! Praise Him!" Later, the congregation joins in singing "I Sing the Mighty Power of God," celebrating the Creator's hand in all things.

- Bible Reading: The scripture reading is taken from Hosea 12, reflecting on the history of Jacob (Israel) and God's call for His people to observe mercy, justice, and to wait on Him continually.

- Children’s Corner: The lesson focuses on the importance of staying connected to the Vine. Using the imagery from John 15, the children learned that Jesus is the vine and we are the branches. Just as a vine dresser prunes a grapevine to help it grow better, God sometimes "prunes" us so we can become better Christians.

- The Message: Moving into Genesis 29:15-30, Brother Bruce explores the "dark and humorous" plot of Jacob’s marriage. After being a deceiver his whole life, Jacob meets his match in Laban, who tricks him into marrying Leah before his beloved Rachel. The sermon highlights that God uses these difficult circumstances to "rub off our rough edges" and train us in righteousness.

Key Moments & Themes

- The School of Discipline: Jacob, the great deceiver, experiences the pain of being deceived. The message emphasizes that God, as a loving Father, disciplines His children, not to punish, but to transform our character.

- The Process of Sanctification: A powerful reminder that salvation is the beginning of a journey. While we are "judiciously" declared dead to sin, we "practically" fight our old nature daily through the power of the Holy Spirit.

- The Two Main Characters: Behind the scenes of Jacob’s struggle, God and Satan are at work. While the enemy tries to throw roadblocks (like the complications of Jacob’s marriages), God uses even those messes to bring about the lineage of Judah and, ultimately, the birth of Christ.

- The Victory of the Resurrection: The service concludes with the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, reflecting on how the devil thought the Cross was a defeat, but God used it as the ultimate victory over death.

Call to Action

Are you currently on your "faith walk" with Jesus? Whether you are on a mountaintop or in a valley where God is "pruning" you, remember that He is not through with you yet. If you have never started that journey—realizing you cannot redeem yourself and falling at the feet of Jesus, we invite you to trust Him today.