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Dear Friends,
Last week we considered some ways that every Christian can be used
by God to serve others constructively before the church service.
(A) Prepare by reading the passage to be preached on (use
the preaching schedule which can be found at the back of church,
or on the website, to help you) and by praying for preacher and
people.
(B) Think about inviting a friend or neighbour to join you.
(C) Be punctual in order to befriend others (specially visitors).
(D) Where you sit be kind (and sensitive) to those around
you.
MINISTRY OF THE PEW (PART TWO — During the service)
(1) Singing
It’s so simple but sing keenly “to one another …
and … to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19). Not to fake it or
show off but — the opposite of sleepy, mindless singing —
to thank God and encourage others. We all know how bad singing can
be — and how good it can be. Wherever you are in the building
sing as keenly as you can.
(2) Be alert to the people around you
If they are new then be ready to greet them … and look out
for the person on their own.
If they look lost help them with service sheet or Bible page or
whatever will assist them.
In the minute to greet people take a real interest in them.
(3) Giving your best attention
When the time comes to pray do your best to tune in, not out —
so the prayer from the front is being echoed to God by you.
In the notices or Bible reading try to follow everything from start
to finish so you know what to join. (Can you see why the two Bible
readings go together?)
(4) Listening to sermons
Ask God for that teachable spirit (since God esteems the one who
“trembles at my word” — Isaiah 66:2) and help the
preacher by looking awake and interested, so he knows you are with
him in the searching of God’s Word. Active listening makes
active preaching!
(5) Opportunities to contribute
Think what you could contribute in an open prayer time or sharing
time — and be alert to the banging door or crying baby around
you, to close the first and point the second to the crèche
if helpful.
(6) What will you say to edify?
Soon you will be mixing with others. What aspect of the sermon or
service will you use to open a faith-building conversation?
May God bless and use you.
Yours in fellowship,
Simon Manchester
P.S. The North Sydney Mayor and Councillors unanimously passed our
development application (for the Ministry Centre) last Monday night.
The new facilities will help us all enormously — thank you
to those who have already given – thank you to those who will
give. We have reached $222,265 from 90 persons or couples.
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