Jesus' Last Words

HEAVEN

feeding . . . gathering . . . carrying . . . leading . (Isaiah 40:11)

Dearest family,

Just in time for our new Summer Teaching Series starting next week, “LIVING ON THE VINE”, I concluded “THE LAST WORDS OF JESUS” series on Sunday with a message that explained why Revelation chapters 4 and 5 are the very necessary conclusion to Jesus’ correspondence with the seven churches. The last message to Laodicea ended with Jesus, the Lord of the church, standing at the door and knocking. If the book of Revelation ended there, then the door would be the entrance for Jesus to come in to our space and place, to enter into the environs of our heart, to kindly and conveniently, come to where we are. And that is true and necessary. Don’t get me wrong! However, it is in fact only half the story. Regardless of how you get to that door, the thing is to get there, because the moment it begins to swing on its hinges, something is revealed that not all the effects of Hollywood’s best special effects could ever capture, given what explodes in on you in a nano-second! So awesome, so massive, so brilliant is it that no one is thinking anymore about what was behind your door, behind your shades, in your little space. The paintings of Jesus, standing outside the door, looking somewhat lost and forlorn, with a bleak and drear landscape behind him, as if he is homeless and desperate for a place to hang-out, couldn’t be further from the truth.

Chapters 4 and 5 show us what is on the other side of the door; show us what we close our lives to when we resist the call of Christ. When we think we’ve got a handle on what is really going on, this tells us what is really going on. The messages to the churches that we have studied are thus sandwiched between two incredible visions of the risen, glorified Christ, in control and on patrol among the churches, and in control and on the throne in the heavenly realms. In both instances there is a common message. You can only understand eaaarth, your life, and unfolding history from heaven’s vantage point. Without an understanding of this, you will fail in your perception of your circumstances, and in your conclusions about what is happening. You will believe that it is the world that overcomes and you will be skeptical at best about the promises to the overcomers in these letters. When these churches met they were overcome, not overcoming, and subverted and pressured and oppressed and challenged and tempted by all sorts of things. They were fragmented and some of them had even experienced some of their members being scattered through backsliding or persecution. But suddenly, a door is opened and in a blinding moment, they, and we, are given a searingly coherent vision of what is really going on, not just in heaven, but among us whenever we gather to worship in Jesus’ name.

Of course, for a detailed review of the message you’ll have to get the tape or CD or download. But let me remind you that what I was showing you was that this incredible vision of the throne, by telling us what the throne communicates, also tells us what takes place, what is effected, what transactions are settled when we gather to worship, regardless of how feeble or overcome or generally discombobulated we are. For the seven churches that were tempted to be dominated, not only by Caesar’s throne but by all the other contrary influences to overcoming faith, this was an invitation to get a heavenly perspective on things, to understand things from a heavenly vantage point, when they couldn’t see past the end of their noses that were out of joint. Given that 7 was the number that represented reality and completeness, we noted 7 observations about what this throne does, and therefore what worship does for us when we gather as a community of faith.

  1. IT RULES: Our God reigns. Are you connected to this throne and are you submitted to trusting his rule for your life? Do you understand why our worship never tires to declare that our God reigns? In worship we recover the reign of God over our lives and realize it afresh in the affairs of men. Does he reign over you?

  2. IT REALIGNS: The throne is central therefore as Petersen writes, “Worship is centering. It realigns our waywardness, it recovers our direction and our position. Are you connected to this throne and is your life aligned with the will of God and not with the constellations of false hope, false ideas, false premises, false promises. Do you understand why our worship draws us back to what is most nonnegotiable in our relationship with God, and in our alignment with his truth? Are you in the center of his embrace or are you off-center on another trajectory? Is your life realigned with his will and his affections for you?

  3. IT RELATES: Needless to say, if the throne is the place of centering, then by definition, it is a phenomenal context for gathering. We are immediately given a description of all the beings and creatures that are there together.” Are you connected to this throne and relating to the body of Christ? Do you understand why our worship relates us and binds us together, our differences becoming the very evidences of our experience of the reconciling and relating power of this throne?

  4. IT REVIVES: There is a poignant moment in 5:4: John says, “I wept and wept because no-one was found who was worthy to open the scroll.” The tears speak of a longing for change, a desperation for revival, a cry for deliverance. They speak of the fear of being excluded, and of hopes unfulfilled. They speak of the frustration at not being able to do anything about the presence of evil. But the throne is the place where the revelation of the Lion of Judah is given. “Do not weep! See, the Lion… has triumphed.” Adoration dispels abandonment. Are you connected to this throne? Do you understand why our worship revives us, because it revives the memory of the one who is worthy to open the scroll and thus give us an explanation, an understanding of God’s purposes in our histories and circumstances? As for what we do not and cannot know, it is sufficient that the scroll in his hands.

  5. IT REVEALS: The throne is the place where the scroll is opened, where there is revelation about the actions and purposes of God. It becomes a place of great assurance. The seven seals indicate that this is a testament, of the will of the Father no less. It is at the throne that Jesus is able to break the seals and reveal the will of God, showing Himself alone to be the one who is worthy to be trusted. When we know that the Lord is in control, when we understand he can be trusted to execute the Father’s will on our behalf rightly, then tears are indeed dried and the spirit is revived. Are you connected to the throne where not only your flagging faith and spirit are revived but where you get a fresh, faith-restoring, faith-quickening revelation that the scroll is written unusually on both sides, meaning He has so much to show you? Do you understand why worship settles our fears about the will of God, and always counts us back in where we have excluded ourselves through our doubts or ignorance, and always brings a revelation of the father’s love and compassion and mercy and grace toward us?

  6. IT REJOICES: It’s good to state the obvious. The throne is the place where joy pulsates, cascades, avalanches, so unself-conscious about volume or length. Heaven is crammed with songs. Are you connected to the throne so your joy can indeed be full, so the joy of your salvation can be restored and continually renewed. Do you understand why worship is essential for both the expectation and experience of joy as well as for its expression? And by the way, they worshiped loudly!

  7. IT RESOLVES: I love what Petersen says about this: “At the throne of God we are immersed in God’s Yes, a yes that silences all our noes and calls forth an answering yes in us.” The throne is the place of settlement. There are no loose ends here. The closing word is simply a loud “Amen!” which of course means “Yes!” or “Let it be!” It is a massive and hearty agreement with God, a mighty affirmation of who God is, an affirmation of his Word to us, his requirements of us, his desires for us. “Amen!” Why do we say it so quietly? It is big and bold, prophetic anticipatory. In the throne room there is no place for stuttering “uh-huh’s” or uncommitted “maybe’s” or doubting “um’s” or procrastinating “er’s) Our lives get littered and jammed with any number of “no’s” many of them which began as little yes’s but were really rejections of the will and ways of God in our actions, our attitudes and our affections. Are you connected to the throne where we recover the truth of God’s huge Yes to us in Christ, his acceptance of us, and where in return, we recover our agreement with his will. Paul wrote, “All the promises of God find their Yes in Christ.” And all the people said a really loud “AMEN!”

Together with you around the throne
Stuart

http://www.christourshepherd.org/pastlet.htm (and follow links to download MP3 audio of sermon)

Announcements

Come to a farewell party for the Wyrtzen family at the McBurney’s on Saturday June 20, 11:30am— 2:30pm. Bring your own meat to BBQ and RSVP to Melanie Sunukujian with a potluck dish. melsunuk@gmail.com.

Men's Breakfast, Saturday 27 June, 9:00 AM Leading into Discussion: Johann Ducharme Childcare will be provided.

“An Introductory Course to the Christian Faith” beginning on June 25. Contact Kelly Doley (kwdoley@gmail.com) or Brandon Prichard (brandonprichard@gmail.com) if you’re interested in attending or bringing friends or if you have any questions.

*MADE IN AMERICA* Come celebrate the newest Kamon (due date July 25) at a red, white and blue Baby Shower, Saturday, July 11th, 11:00 a.m. at Nancy Merritt's home, 512 11th Street SE, DC. Bring a scripture to pray over the baby! Group gift: Call Maria Keffler, 703-971-3818. Please respond to Nancy, 202-546-0120

BBQ cookout after church Sunday, June 28. Proceeds to benefit Ashasthan Home in Mumbai, India (this is where Alys McAlpine spent the last 4 months).

Come see the COSC Flock softball team play Monday, 15 June, West Potomac Field 3 at 7PM. If you have questions, email Matthew at matthew.tropiano@navy.mil or Anne Hall at anne.hall16@gmail.com

You are invited to a Baby Shower to welcome Julian to the Chenoweth family and the COSC family on Saturday, June 27 at 10am at the Temenaks’ home. Call Carla Temenak at 301-434-5232 to RSVP and for information about a group gift.

Bulletin Board
Postings not officially sanctioned by COSC.

HOUSING: Sept 1 – Room Avail - Looking for a CF to share a Kingstone, Alexandria, Va,4 BR/3.5 BA townhouse with three Christian, female 30-somethings.Rent - $584/mo. + shared utilities. The available room is upstairs, sharing a full bath with one roommate. Shared living space includes the entire main floor with a living room, dining room, and kitchen, basement living room, upstairs attic space for storage, and laundry room with washer/dryer. Free gym membership. O/D pool open during the summer.

HOUSING: Looking for Christian female subletter in Chinatown (DC), Aug-Sept. Furnished sunroom. Apartment features shared bathroom with washer & dryer; A/C; high-speed wireless internet and cable tv; and two wonderful roommates, both working in international development. We're looking for a Christian female in her 20's or 30's who's neat and friendly. $750/mo + utils (approx $65/mo). Website http://www.galleryapts.com – Chesapeake Floorplan. Garage parking available for additional cost. Dawn, dancerdawn05@yahoo.com

HOUSING: Ben Doggett, Jim Song and Johann Ducharme are looking to rent at 2 - 4 bedroom house on Capital Hill, ideally walking distance from COSC and metro accessible. Their target move-in date is July 1. If you have a place to rent or are aware of one, please e-mail Ben at bdoggett@gmail.com.

HOUSING: unfurnished bedroom with private bath for rent in SFH for single woman in Cape Code SFH 3.5 blocks from East Falls Church metro. The 3 others are single professional women in their 20s, one of whom is also in grad school. Rent $765/ mo + utils ($60-100/mo). Parking available. Available July 1. Christina, christina.m.watts@gmail.com or Jessica, espngirl@gmail.com

,

PHILADELPHIA PT.2

,

feeding . . . gathering . . . carrying . . . leading . (Isaiah 40:11)

Dearest family,

I do hope that you have looked at the schedule of services planned for the celebration of Easter Week, and that you are thinking intentionally about how you are going to participate, and take time out of the usual busy order of weekly events, to respond to Hebrews 12:3: “Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men…” Please plan to be at one of the services. We begin with the Night of Prayer on Saturday from 6-midnight. We will have a wonderful celebration of ordination on Palm Sunday, focusing on the risen Christ’s gifts to the church. Come to either Maundy Thursday service, led by Church of the Resurrection, or our special combined service on Good Friday when I will bring the meditation. Holy Saturday begins with an intimate gathering at our Communion rail at 8:00am and then we will have our “first day of the week” service on Easter Sunday, preceded by a continental breakfast. See you there!

Over the last two Sundays, we have been seeing that the enemy’s plan for opposition is overpowered by God’s purpose for opportunity. We have seen the way that God’s open door is his gift to the church, which was first seen after the cross “behind closed doors” for fear. The circumstances that seem to wall us in and thwart the advance of the gospel in our lives and in our world, are punctured by an open door. This was the glorious message for the besieged church at Philadelphia that went on to became one of the great missionary communities that lasted into the fourteenth century, and was only then defeated because of internal dissension. One way to sum up the message to that church in Rev. 3 would be like this:

For opposition read opportunity. For “hitting the wall” read “going through the door”. For the character of the world out there that is uncleanness and lies, read the character of the Lord who is holy and true. For the “synagogue of Satan” read “the community of saints.” For the lock read the key. For engulfed read endured. For resigning read reigning. You’ve heard of “Catch-22”. Jesus is quoting Isaiah 22:22 here: “What he opens no one can shut.” I call this “Latch-22”! The Lord is the one who breaks asunder the bars of iron, who opens the door of opportunity for the church. The door of our salvation is the door of our service!

The main part of our service was to present you with the doors of opportunity that already exist for you as a member of COSC, and thus automatically an operative of the Care Company, our shared corporate outreach to our neighbors, and of The Antioch Group, our shared corporate outreach to the nations.

So much love and labor goes into these ministries and these presentations. Please steward these opportunities. The sense of the Revelation text is that this door is a trust and a gift and that we have responsibility to make the best and the most of it. At least encourage us by going to the two websites and getting them on your Favorites:

www.carecompanydc.org www.theantiochgroup.org

Be sure to keep those draft brochures in your Bible!

Pastorally yours,
Stuart

http://www.christourshepherd.org/pastlet.htm (follow links to download MP3 sermon)

Announcements

Night of Prayer
This Saturday—April 4
6pm to midnight
Come to pray for your neighbor, your nation,
your church, the nations…and yourself!

This Sunday—Adult/youth Softball at Randall Park (South Capitol and I Streets SW) after church. Bring lunch and enjoy playing or watching.

Water baptism service on April 19. Class will be held at 8:30am on April 5 for any adults considering baptism.

FREE Apologetics Evangelism Seminar Series

  • Apologetics Evangelism with Postmodern People, April 3-4 with Prof. Jerram Barrs

  • Tactics in Defending the Faith, May 15-16 with Greg Koukl These will both be at McLean Presbyterian Church. Free attendance with registration at www.cslewisinstitute.org

Care Company Opportunities: (202-422-7032 or monique@carecompanydc.org)

  • Care Company is now online at www.carecompanydc.org—check out the website for many volunteer opportunities!

  • Adult Literacy Volunteer—We are looking for men interested in mentoring men from Central Union Mission who have a desire to learn to read. Please contact us ASAP if you would like to find out more information.

For the women of COSC:

  • On April 13, the next book club meeting will be held at Laurie Chenoweth’s house to discuss the book Expecting Adam by Martha Beck.

  • The next Saturday supper will be cajun at Cay Perque’s house on April 18.

  • Women’s Retreat June 6-7 at the Bishop Claggett retreat center in Maryland

Please pray for the Kamon family. Larry’s mother has been quite ill and was hospitalized recently. She lives in Chicago, so the Kamon family will likely be making some cross-country trips to visit and support her.

Bulletin Board
Postings not officially sanctioned by COSC.

HOUSING—Brookland/Catholic Univ: 4BR, 2.5 BA four story with semi-finished basement & backyard, w/d, cac, d/w, parking. 7 min walk to Rhode Island Av Metro. $3000/mo, 1 year lease with deposit/application/credit check. Avail mid-April. Tom & Dee Scriven, 703-403-5026

JOB OPENING: Capitol Hill Pregnancy Center seeking part-time bookkeeper/office manager. Need general office skills, must be organized; experience in or ability to adapt to donor base technology and computer finance recordkeeping. Janet Durig, 202-546-1018

INTERN HOUSING: Christian Legal Society (CLS) hosts summer interns with ADF Blackstone Fellowship. The students work in the Center for Law & Religious Freedom, assist with our cases and help us to assist others whose rights are being violated. They are typically hardworking, conscientious, passionate, and love the Lord. We need 2 households for 1 intern each June 19 - July 31. ADF requires that they have their own bedroom and strongly prefers that they not be housed with young people (teenage through college) of the opposite sex. We don't know yet the gender of this year's interns. They receive a stipend to help pay for food and other costs while they are here. Casey Mattox, cmattox@clsnet.org

U.S. Capitol Bible Reading Marathon: Begins 6PM May 3 with Genesis 1:1 and runs for 90 hours, ending at 4PM on May 7. Reserve your time to read with Terry Shaffer Hall via email at dcbiblemarathon@aol.com www.dcbiblemarathon.org / 202-441-6455

HOUSING-Capitol Hill: furnished apartment available April 15 (short-term lease ok) $2100/mo. 3 blocks from Capitol, walking distance to metros, 2 large rooms, large bath, fully-equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, completely furnished, utilities, cable TV & wireless internet included. Karan Townsend, karantownsend@gmail.com or 304 -702-1872 or Jason Townsend, 202-415-7400 or Jason@RealEstateinDC.com

HOUSING—Union Station NW: large Victorian near 1st & K NW. Complete apartment in basement; 4 BR, 3 BA upstairs. Game room with pool table and basketball hoop. Seeking 4 renters at $800/month and split utilities by April 10. I will be moved out by May 1 and my home will be available including furniture and household items. Joanna Johnson, 202-997-5738

,

PHILADELPHIA

,

feeding . . . gathering . . . carrying . . . leading . (Isaiah 40:11)

Dearest family,

As we approach Easter Week we want you to be aware of all the opportunities to participate in worship. Please make note of the enclosed calendar of services.

We especially want you to note something momentous and exciting that will be happening during our Palm Sunday service. It is with great joy that we will all be participating in the ministerial ordination of Bo Parker. This is the climax of a process of preparation and examination that Bo has satisfied in all respects, with regard to his fitness to fulfill this calling in the service of the Body of Christ. Pastor Steve Fry will be with us from Nashville, representing the Ordaining Ministerial Association, overseeing the liturgy and bringing the message. Please be sure to be at COSC on time. We want everyone to be there for this great occasion. It is truly appropriate that we conduct this service during Easter week as it is the risen Christ who gives such gifts of ministry to the church.

You, your family and friends are joyously invited to attend:

PALM SUNDAY
APRIL 5TH
10:00 A.M.
MINISTERIAL ORDINATION
OF
BO PARKER
A reception of cake and punch will follow the service

Pastorally yours on behalf of the elders,
Stuart

Announcements

Congratulations to Chris and Sarah on the birth of Liam Edward (9lb 7oz, 22.5”) on Friday!

The next Night of Prayer will be April 4, from 6pm to midnight.

We are having a water baptism service on April 19. Please contact the office to reserve your place! A pre-baptism class will be held before the service on April 5 for adults, and on March 29 for any children or youth considering baptism.

The next Evening of Healing Prayer will be on Tuesday, March 31. If you would like an appointment for healing prayer, or if you would like to come and sit in the sanctuary during the evening, call Deborah at the office (202-544-9599) by Friday, March 27.

April 5—Adult/youth Softball at Randall Park (South Capitol and I Streets SW) after church. Bring lunch and enjoy playing or watching.

FREE Apologetics Evangelism Seminar Series

  • Apologetics Evangelism with Postmodern People, April 3-4 with Prof. Jerram Barrs

  • Tactics in Defending the Faith, May 15-16 with Greg Koukl These will both be at McLean Presbyterian Church. Free attendance with registration at www.cslewisinstitute.org

Care Company Opportunities: (202-422-7032 or monique@carecompanydc.org)

  • The next Righteous Renovation is an urban collaboration with other local non-profits to build a playground at Hopkins. Come and help on the planning committee!

  • Adult Literacy Volunteer—We are looking for men interested in mentoring men from Central Union Mission who have a desire to learn to read. Please contact us ASAP if you would like to find out more information.

Intercession News: “Seek God For The City 2009” (Feb. 25 to Apr. 5) booklets available. Suggested donation $3. Lost & found will be cleared out April 1. Thanks!

For the men of COSC:

Men's Breakfast, 28 March, 9-1030 AM. Start time at 9:00
Testimony Experience: Brent McBurney Discussion and Challenge to follow. Child Care will be provided

For the women of COSC:

  • On April 13, the next book club meeting will be held at Laurie Chenoweth’s house to discuss the book Expecting Adam by Martha Beck.

  • Women’s Retreat June 6-7 at the Bishop Claggett retreat center in Maryland

Bulletin Board
Postings not officially sanctioned by COSC.

HOUSING—Brookland/Catholic Univ: 4BR, 2.5 BA four story with semi-finished basement & backyard, w/d, cac, d/w, parking. 7 min walk to Rhode Island Av Metro. $3000/mo, 1 year lease with deposit/application/credit check. Avail mid-April. Tom & Dee Scriven, 703-403-5026

JOB OPENING: Capitol Hill Pregnancy Center seeking part-time bookkeeper/office manager. Need general office skills, must be organized; experience in or ability to adapt to donor base technology and computer finance recordkeeping. Janet Durig, 202-546-1018

INTERN HOUSING: Christian Legal Society (CLS) hosts summer interns with ADF Blackstone Fellowship. The students work in the Center for Law & Religious Freedom, assist with our cases and help us to assist others whose rights are being violated. They are typically hard-working, conscientious, passionate, and love the Lord. We need 2 households for 1 intern each June 19 - July 31. ADF requires that they have their own bedroom and strongly prefers that they not be housed with young people (teenage through college) of the opposite sex. We don't know yet the gender of this year's interns. They also receive a stipend to help pay for food and other costs while they are here. Casey Mattox, cmattox@clsnet.org

U.S. Capitol Bible Reading Marathon: Begins 6PM May 3 with Genesis 1:1 and runs for 90 hours, ending at 4PM on May 7. Reserve your time to read with Terry Shaffer Hall via email at dcbiblemarathon@aol.com www.dcbiblemarathon.org / 202-441-6455

http://www.christourshepherd.org/pastlet.htm (and follow links to download MP3 audio file of sermon)

,

SARDIS

,

feeding . . . gathering . . . carrying . . . leading . (Isaiah 40:11)

Dearest family,

On Sunday we continued our journey around the postal circuit in Asia Minor that has us opening again the letters that John sent to the churches along the route. Our last port of call was Thyatira, but we traveled another 30 miles SE of that city to Sardis, where no less than five of the then-world’s major trade routes converged. What we have discovered so far is that there is a common and distinctive pattern to these letters as they address the differing situations of the churches in these cities. There is confrontation and condemnation, but also commendation and comfort. The warnings about consequences are accompanied by loving counsel that if heeded, will save the hearers, and preserve the church. We have also noticed that in every case, the nature and condition of the life of the city, is used as illustrative of the problems within the church. Historical, political, geographical and commercial factors become images and analogies of the spiritual issues facing the local believers. We found that Sardis was no different. However, in her case, it was a geological feature that was the most telling indication of its problem. We did note some obvious differences though. There was no commendation of anything in the church at Sardis. Conspicuous by its absence was any mention of the external enemy of persecution, or the internal enemy of false teaching. The sad fact is that there wasn’t much for opposition to oppose. It wasn’t Christian enough to be led astray and it wasn’t in danger of suffering because there was no battle that it engaged. I cannot sum it up better than one old commentator: “Sunken in spiritual deadness and torpor, the lamp of faith waning and almost extinguished in their hearts, the Lord presents himself as having the fullness of all spiritual gifts; able therefore to revive, able to recover, able to bring back from the very gates of spiritual death, those who would employ the little last remaining strength which they still retained, in calling, even when thus in extremis, upon Him.”

An historian has written this of Sardis: “It was the city whose name was almost synonymous with pretension unjustified, promise unfulfilled, appearance without reality, confidence that heralded ruin.” Another historical observer wrote “she lived on ancient prestige rather than on its suitability to present conditions.” Herein was the problem for both city and church. There was a huge credibility gap between: reputation and reality, between promise and performance, between past prestige and present practice. It’s not that they did not have a reputation, they did – but with men. The key disturbing phrase here is “in the sight of God.” Was it not Jesus himself who said, “Stop judging by mere appearances and make a right judgment.” (Jn.7:24) Does not scripture say, “Man looks on the outward appearance but the Lord looks on the heart.” When all is said and done, the estimation of others counts for nothing. In men’s eyes, things looked fine. The fig tree that the disciples saw with Jesus looked fine, but on closer examination it was nothing but leaves. What was fine was just finery. The greenery of charisma could not ultimately hide the absence of the fruit of character. The moral is clear. Worry more about what God knows than what others see.

Sardis ended up as a poser. It is somewhat alarming that we can end up in a place we never imagined we could be. This is a church that began well but did not finish well. It’s not that it wasn’t producing deeds. It was, but because they were dead they were dead works. I’m sure they thought they were enough and that there were enough of them. Enough for them, enough for the community but they turned out not to be enough for Christ. His verdict was that they were incomplete. They had not finished what they were called to start. They had not fulfilled what they were called to be and do. They had stopped short, given up, drawn back, dropped out, passed by, slowed down, stepped out, side-tracked. The result was incompletion. As Paul asked the Galatians, “What cut in to your persuasion?”

The concern of the apostle Paul, which is the heart concern of Jesus for us, is that we may stand…complete. (Cols.4:12) Throughout the NT we are presented with the invitation to mature in our faith without any interruptions or deviations and diversions or back-slidings. “Let us go on to perfection” says the writer to the Hebrews (6:1) and in another place he talks of the work of the risen Christ to bring us to completion (13:21) Paul talks to the Ephesians about the “perfecting of the saints” (4:22) He exhorts the Thessalonians to “perfect what is lacking” (1Th 3:10) and instructs the Corinthians in “perfecting holiness” (2Cor.7:1) The apostle John talked about the perfecting of our love. Sadly, thousands of Christians get caught in this credibility gap, as do thousands of churches, with the same result as in Sardis: their works are not complete. This was the problem Jesus himself confronted in the Pharisees, whose degeneration from a holiness movement to a hypocritical one resulted in him calling them “whited sepulchres.” Like Sardis, they appeared to be alive but they were dead.

We studied the text under three headings: reputation challenged, revival urged, rewards given. You’ll need to get the tape or download the MP3 for the details. Let me at least remind you of that geological feature that becomes a telling image of the problem. So how did Sardis fall, given those sheer precipices on three sides and its easily defended position. It was sitting 1500 feet high on a rock that was impregnable. How did it fall? Unfortunately, the plateau on which Sardis stood was not the rock they thought it to be. How true this is of so many people who think the foundation of their lives is sure and secure. It was a different kind of material. The best way it has been described is “compacted mud”. Over time, tiny fissures appeared in the rock, and what was deemed unassailable by an enemy could in fact be scaled. It turned out that it did not take a large army to bring Sardis down. Just a couple of enemy soldiers silently and slowly making their way up the fissures until they got over the wall and opened the gates of the city to their army from the inside. There is no other foundation for life than that which is laid in Jesus Christ. Everything else may serve the part, may appear to be an impregnable philosophy, a secure system of life management, but at the end of the day it is compacted mud, vulnerable to the wear and tear of life’s assaults, and in the end it will be found wanting. The self-confidence and complacency with which these foundations are lauded and applauded will be overcome by the enemy of man’s eternal safety – the world, the flesh and the devil. No wonder we love to sing “He is our Rock”. No wonder Jesus said that obedience to him was the rock foundation of life.

When it is mud that you live on, you inevitably get a little muddy. I came across a great C.S. Lewis quote this week that is relevant here. “We shall of course be very muddy… But the bathrooms are all ready, the towels put out and the clean clothes in the airing cupboard…It is when we notice the dirt that God is most present in us; it is the very sign of his presence.” I quote this to let you know that the revelation of our sin is always an invitation not to live in self-condemnation but to live receiving the commendation of the Lord that we so need and long for and that is so readily available to us when we repent and turn to him. As in the letter here at Sardis, the revelation of the savior is always greater than the revelation of our sin. Hallelujah!

The sleeping church of Sardis, that was dead not alive, was given an opportunity to be revived, and so are we, whenever we too are caught in the no man’s land between appearance and reality. Thank God for the wake up calls of the Spirit and for the revelation of Christ with all of the Spirit at his disposal, to give to all of us who are running on empty, with things that are about to die, the opportunity to be revived and raised from our death. Charles Wesley got it right in his hymn “O for a thousand tongues to sing”:

He speaks and listening to His voice
New life the dead receive.

Pastorally yours,
Stuart

http://www.christourshepherd.org/pastlet.htm (and follow links to download MP3 audio file of sermon)

Announcements

We are planning a water baptism service on April 19. Please contact the office if you are interested.

Free CS Lewis Seminar: The Meaning of Sex: How to Approach the Tough Issues with speaker Dennis Hollinger, president and professor of ethics at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, at The Falls Church March 14 9am -11:30 am. http://www.cslewisinstitute.org/node/643

FREE Apologetics Evangelism Seminar Series

  • Apologetics Evangelism with Postmodern People, April 3-4 with Prof. Jerram Barrs

  • Tactics in Defending the Faith, May 15-16 with Greg Koukl These will both be at McLean Presbyterian Church. Free attendance with registration at www.cslewisinstitute.org

COSC Softball Team—The Flock is in need of female players. We will be playing on Monday evenings at 7:00pm. Email Matthew.Tropiano@navy.mil or anne.hall16@gmail.com to learn more! Registration will be about $30/person for the city softball league fee.

Care Company Opportunities: (202-422-7032 or monique@carecompanydc.org)

  • The next Righteous Renovation is an urban collaboration with other local non-profits to build a playground at Hopkins. Come and help on the planning committee!

  • Adult Literacy Volunteer—We are looking for men interested in mentoring men from Central Union Mission who have a desire to learn to read. Please contact us ASAP if you would like to find out more information.

Intercession News: “Seek God For The City 2009” (Feb. 25 to Apr. 5) booklets available. Suggested donation $3

For the men of COSC:
For those looking for weekly connection, come and visit our Samson Society Meeting on Tuesdays from 7:30- 8:30pm (with time for continued fellowship afterward) at 616 South Carolina Avenue SE. For more information, email Matthew at matthew.tropiano@navy.mil

For the women of COSC:

  • Ladies, you are invited to a double baby shower for Sarah Lasmanis & Melanie Sunukjian on Saturday, March 14, at 2:00pm at Meghan Livingston’s home. RSVP to Kristi ( 202-379-8930) and indicate if you are interested in a group gift.

  • The next Saturday Supper is on March 21

  • On April 13, the next book club meeting will be held at Laurie Chenoweth’s house to discuss the book Expecting Adam by Martha Beck.

  • Women’s Retreat June 6-7 at the Bishop Claggett retreat center in Maryland

Bulletin Board
Postings not officially sanctioned by COSC.

JESSE TREE BANNER WORKSHOP: “Christmas in July”. During the workshop, each participant/family will create a custom made Jesse Tree Banner and all associated elements. Contact Amy if you’re interested in learning more. She’ll send you all the pertinent details. Amy, amyherbert@verizon.net or 202- 549-1112

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER for Grace DC Church: (www.gracedc.net) to oversee 4-6 year old class Sunday evenings. Duties include preparing lesson (with the help of the nursery coordinator), overseeing the care of the children, and teaching the lesson. Hours would be Sunday evenings, 4:30-7pm, plus time spent during the week preparing. Compensation is $22/hour. Emily, emily.baldwin@gmail.com

MARCH 7 THRU EASTER “Simple Gifts” EXHIBIT: a local painter painted several Capitol Hill church buildings to portray the lyrics to Simple Gifts. Ours is one of the buildings. The exhibit will be at Capitol Hill Presbyterian (4th & Independence SE). They will have paintings and prints available for purchase.

HOUSING Dupont area sublet: Furnished studio, 400 sq. ft. available immediately on a week-byweek basis. 1500 Massachusetts Av NW. Near Dupont Circle/McPherson Sq, convenient to groceries, restaurants and Dupont area. $325/week, plus $100 security deposit. Includes utils (energy, heating/AC), small grocery store in building, 24-hour reception desk, laundry area. Smoke-free, pet-free. Jacqui, jveloz@hotmail.com

Capitol Hill: $1250/month 1 BR, 1 BA apt available mid-March. 1st floor of rowhouse on a corner, access to shared patio. Renovated in 2003. Full-size windows in LR and exposed brick. All new kitchen includes single unit washer/dryer. The bedroom has 2 full sized windows and built-in bookcases. 5 min walk to Lincoln Park, 10-15 to Union Station, Capitol and Senate buildings, Atlas District, 15-20 to House Buildings, Eastern Market. Rent incl water/sewage. Heather, hamcolvin@yahoo.com or 202-495-8120

Brookland/Catholic Univ: 4 BR, 2.5 BA four story house with semi-finished basement & backyard. W/D, Central AC, dishwasher, parking. 7 minute walk to red line metro (Rhode Island Av). $3000/mo, 1 year lease, security deposit, application & credit check. Available mid-April. Tom and Dee Scriven, 703-403- 5026

JOB OPENING: Capitol Hill Pregnancy Center is looking for a part-time bookkeeper/office manager. Need general office skills, must be organized; experience in or ability to adapt to donor base technology and computer finance recordkeeping. Janet Durig, 202-546-1018

,

PERGAMUM

,

A PASTORAL LETTER

Dearest family,

One of the passages I referenced on Sunday in our study of the words of Jesus to the church of Pergamum in Revelation chapter 2, was Hebrews chapter 4. In verse 13 we read: “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. “ That’s enough to make one shiver a bit. How does it make you feel? We are not always happy to be known. There are things we don’t want known about us. Every letter to every church includes the words “I know…” The fact is that each letter reveals the things that the churches would rather have kept hidden or off the radar. But the point I want to make is that God’s knowledge is not limited to the things we’d rather not acknowledge. He tells us the things that He knows that are a source of incredible comfort to us when we hear them. This was certainly true for the church in Pergamum.

Do you remember anything of the description I gave of that city in my introduction? How bad was it? Even scripture describes it as an HQ for the demonic. This is repeated, and given the rarity with which the actual name “Satan” is used in scripture, the fact that it is mentioned twice in the same verse is unprecedented. That is how concentrated and intense the presence of evil is in this place “where Satan has his throne…where Satan lives.” However, the obvious and simple point to make is that despite the depth of the darkness and the demonic, the debauchery and the dissipation, there is a church here that is being addressed by this letter. Though the darkness is great, it has not extinguished the burning lamp-stand that is this community of persecuted and besieged believers. Truly, a light still shone in the darkness, and in the words of Jesus, the darkness couldn’t put it out. Truly, greater is He that was in them, than he who was in the world.

The comparison of the opposing forces and parties is presented in the very title of Christ that is used in the introduction of verse 12: “who has the sharp, double-edged sword.” Pergamum was the city of the Roman sword. As the seat of government it was where that sword was exercised as the power of life or death. Jesus immediately calls all that into question with His sword. The sword of the Spirit trumps the Roman sword. This was a city of word-mongers, and we see at the very outset, that the finality of the word of God overcomes the word of men. This image of the word of God is crucial to a church that is experiencing that word being challenged by false teachers who were subverting its authority and its directives for holiness. It is in that passage in Hebrews 4 that we have the best known New Testament presentation of this same image, which gives us a biblical commentary on this text in Revelation 2:12: “For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” When we realize what it is that Christ is going to confront, namely the need for truthful teaching in the church when there is so much about that opposes biblical truth, then we realize the meaning of this choice of the sword. It is precisely a failure of knowledge of the word, of living the word, that has put Pergamum in terrible danger, and in fact, already infiltrated it and infected it. The Hebrews 4 scripture presents three aspects of the word’s work: it is a divider, a discerner and a discoverer. It divides the true from the false, cutting through the obfuscations and deceits; it discerns even the intents of the heart and confronts them for what they are; it discovers what is hidden and exposes what needs to be dealt with. Another scripture you could usefully study in detail here that equally describes the functions of this sword, this word, is John 16: it reproves us of sin, righteousness and judgment; it guides us into all truth; it shows us what is to come. Fundamental to the authority of Christ here is the authority of scripture. We need go no further than Christ’s own example. In Jesus’ personal confrontation with Satan himself, it was the scriptures that were his defense and offence: “It is written.” As you read the gospels listen for it: did you never read in the scriptures, you do err not knowing the scriptures, how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, this day is this scripture fulfilled, what says the scripture, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures, that they might understand the scriptures, another scripture saith, as the scriptures have said, search the scriptures. The faithful teaching of scripture is one of the most powerful weapons in spiritual warfare. The very word “diabolos” from which we get “diabolic” to describe the devil, is a word that means slanderer, or one who hurls accusations. In other words, the manifestation of the enemy is presented in terms of a word-war. The word of God overcomes the word of Satan.

But amongst the knowledge that this word-sword brings is the phrase: “I know where you live.” What a necessary word of incredible comfort for them and for us. Why do I say that? Because this is a very unusual text. The word that is usually used for living or dwelling somewhere, carries the meaning of being a sojourner, of it being only a temporary abode; it is the idea that we are just passing through. But here, there is a very different word used that does not denote temporary residence but permanent residence. It means that a choice has been made to settle in that place and accept that there is to be no escape from it. You can’t pack up and go somewhere cheaper or easier or warmer or friendlier or more conducive to ministry, or more responsive to the gospel, or less hostile to God. God has set you where Satan’s seat is, but because it is his placement he will be engaged and involved and committed to our lives here, and you will not be moved or undone or subverted by the pressures of the place. Hallelujah! I love this verse. This is about a spiritual GPS. God’s Positioning System. He knows where we are; he knows what we have to face and deal with and contend with and fight against where we are. He knows who else is there. Satan no less. In other words, he knows that there is a particular timbre, a strength, a virulence, a hostility in the geography against the church. The Lord knows what our particular environment and circumstances demand of us, require of us. He is mindful of our situation, of the challenges to our obedience and loyalty, the challenges to our worship and witness; he’s aware of the peculiarity of certain temptations and difficulties. He is the paraclete who comes alongside. Certain places like Pergamum, like Washington D.C., come with very particular oppressions and depressions, with particular darknesses and fears, with particular histories and curses. (This is why we prayer-walk!) This is why we pray for the healing of the land, because the Bible tells us how the land and local areas can become defiled. There are some geographies that have been handed over to Satan and the demonic, where evil rules and reigns, or where the land is barren and bleak. The Lord knows what affects us. Here in DC I hear a continuing litany of the effects of this place on people’s spirits, the seduction of this city’s life, the backsliding of so many Christians who come within its gravitational pull; the allure of its power. But he knows where we live! We need to spiritually discern and spiritually respond to what we deal with here. There are carnal oppositions and discouragements that seek to undo us. Who brought you here? Who placed you where you are? He knows where we live and His sword is our sword, and it is mighty to the pulling down of the strongholds that would oppose the purposes for which God brought us to this city to bless it, and to bless us. Hallelujah! The lampstand is burning in Washington D.C. because he knows where we live!


Pastorally yours,

Stuart

http://www.christourshepherd.org/pastlet.htm (and follow links to download MP3 audio file of sermon)

Announcements

The church office will be closed on January 19 - 20, 2009.

Women of COSC: New Beginnings – in celebration of a new year. Bring “starters” (aka appetizers), your Bibles, pens, story of something new in your life. 6022 Katelyn Ct. Alexandria, 1 mile south of the beltway off Van Dorn. Turn west onto Chrysanthemum, there’s parking a half a block on the left (just past some town homes). Katelyn is the next right, we’re in the second building, second unit on the right. The blue line Metro Franconia stop is one mile away and we can come get you! 703.598.1892 for any further info! Can’t wait to see you! (Jan 17 @ 6pm)

Pre-Inauguration Prayer-Walk 2009 - On inauguration day January 20th, an estimated 10,000 buses will be dropping visitors off at 12 designated Zones around DC. At each Zone, an estimated average of 40,000 souls will be landing in our city. Please consider taking advantage of this unprecedented opportunity to take up 1 of 12 Zones and prayer-walk there any time between now and January 19th 11:59pm (though sooner is better). Pray for righteousness to come into the city and unrighteousness and evil to be kept out, pray for the visitors and welcome the King (Jesus) into our city. Please contact Adrian Li (202-674- 2767 / adrian@JesusOnHigh.com) if you plan to go or have any questions. Feel free to invite your friends from COSC or other churches along. Visit http://ComeAndPray.com for more details, suggestion for prayers and the most updated information.

Join with Church of the Resurrection in a gathering of praise and worship, proclamation and prayer on Inauguration Day with Bishop John Rucyahana of Rwanda. Bishop John is the 2009 winner of the international William Wilberforce Award and the founder of the Sonrise Orphanage and School in Northwestern Rwanda. Join us at 5PM Tuesday, January 20, at COSC. http://rezchurch.org/

If you’ve had an abortion, God not only forgives, he binds broken hearts and proclaims freedom for those captive to the shame of an abortion. The Capitol Hill Pregnancy Center’s Post Abortion Trauma Healing (PATH) program provides a Bible Study support group to provide hope and healing. The next group begins in early February. Location and dates are confidential due the personal nature of this study. Please call CHPC at 202-546-1018 for information and to register. “He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn.” (Is 61:1-2)

Capitol Hill Pregnancy Center - Bowlapalooza!! Sunday, February 8, 2009 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM at Ft. Myer Bowling Center. Support CHPC by participating in their annual bowling fundraiser. You can bowl or sponsor a bowler with a tax-deductible donation. RSVP by Jan 30, (703-293-9017 or rsvp@miruscorp.com) Registration is $20 per bowler (FREE if you collect $100 or more in sponsored donations) OR $40 per family (FREE if you collect $200 or more in sponsored donations). Contact Kristi (kpstofer@yahoo.com) with any questions about sponsoring or bowling!

Men of COSC: Men’s Retreat January 31– February 1. Sign up in the lobby after church on Sunday.

Newcomers class—for any who wish to learn more about or join COSC. The class is presented in a two-part series Wed, Jan 21 & Thu, Feb 19 at 7:30pm. RSVP to the office.

Engaging Contemporary Culture conference with guest speaker Professor Jerram Barrs. Friday, Jan 23, 7-9pm and Saturday, Jan 24, 9am-noon at Calvary Baptist Church in Chinatown. Registration is free, but required: http:// wp26.gracedc.net/resources/training-events/ jerram-barrs/

We’re planning a water baptism service soon (January or February). Please contact the office if you’re interested in baptism.

If you are interested in helping with tax preparation for local low-income residents, contact Aaron Keffler at akeffler@gmail.com

There will be no Evening of Healing Prayer in January. The next Evening of Healing Prayer will be on February 24. If you need to arrange a healing prayer appointment or have any questions about the Evening of Healing Prayer in February, please contact the office.

Regeneration Ministries is offering An Introduction to Hope & Healing for men with unwanted same-sex attraction. Eight Mondays: February 2 through March 23, 2009 7:30PM to 9:30PM at The Falls Church—Southgate 106 E. Fairfax St., Falls Church, VA. For more information contact Peter Mitchell at Regeneration Ministries 703-591-4673 or peter@regenerationministries.org

Gracie & her family appreciate your prayers over the past 21 months! Her race is not yet over...literally! On January 24, Gracie and many other kids needing complete healing from Juvenile Dermatomyositis will run/ walk 1-mile to raise research funds to help find a cure. To find out more information (& read about conquering the monkey bars!), visit http://www.firstgiving.com/GraciesDream

Nefret reports that the youth at Southeast White House made $4500 with their holiday candy project and would like to thank everyone who supported them!

You may want to check your Sunday route to church against the roads that will be closed this weekend in preparation for the Inauguration. The United States Park Police blog their press releases; you should be able to find the most recent closure listings here: http:// www.uspppressroom.blogspot.com/ or

Visit the DC Mayor’s inaugural informational site at http://www.pic2009.org/
PDF Map of road closures for January 18:

Bulletin Board

Postings not officially sanctioned by COSC.

HOUSING: Furnished bedroom and bathroom available in January for Christian female(s) at 10th and E Street NE. 15 minute walk to Union Station and Eastern Market metros with library, shops, parks, and restaurants nearby. Shared kitchen and laundry plus internet access and ample storage. Must appreciate young children. $750/month or $1000 split between two renters (includes utilities) plus $100 security deposit. Contact melanie.sunukjian@biola.edu

SEEKING HOUSING: 22 year-old poli. sci grad from Biola University; moving to DC to look for a job. Interned in DC and attended COSC. Looking for a room to rent near COSC, Eastern Market, Capitol Hill, or a Metro stop. I am looking to arrive around the first week of January and need a room for 6-9 months to get myself established. Justin LoFranco; (951) 694-2084 or j.v.lofranco@gmail.com

SEEKING HOUSING: recent graduate from Ithaca, NY; moving to DC to work for World Vision in DC office starting late January or early February. I am a Christian female and looking for short term housing for several months (until June or so). My current position is temporary and I am planning to look for a long-term position. Chieko Wada, wchieko@gmail.com or 607-279-8010