Knowing God With Heart and Mind

Echo 18 - Get Serious!

Adrienne and Pastor Dan talk about the significance of a covenant relationship with Christ. What does it mean to pledge allegiance to the Kingdom of Christ? What if you are called to one allegiance, and it's to the Lord Jesus? 

Renewing Our Covenant with God

Sunday, December 31, 2023 ~ Sermon Notes

Renewing Our Covenant with God ~ Psalm 103

Today, we gather to reflect on the tradition of John Wesley's Covenant Renewal Service. In this timeless ritual, Wesley invited believers to reaffirm their commitment to God—a commitment not taken lightly but embraced with deep conviction. Wesley believed in the power of intentional relationship with God, and the Covenant Renewal Service became a pivotal moment for Methodists to renew their vows of love, faith, and obedience. It's a reminder that our journey of faith is not a one-time decision but a continuous, intentional walk with our Creator. As we engage in this service, we echo the words spoken by those who have gone before us, committing ourselves afresh to God's guidance, grace, and love. It's a moment to examine our hearts, acknowledging areas where we may have strayed, and seeking forgiveness and renewal.
The Wesleyan Covenant Prayer was adapted by John Wesley for the renewal of the believer's covenant with God. Wesley says that The prayer was first used in a covenant renewal service held on Monday, August 11, 1755, in London, with 1800 people present. Since then, the Wesleyan Covenant Prayer is often used in Methodist churches around the world on the first Sunday of the year, or in watch night services on New Year’s Eve. 

Not to Be Taken Lightly
In Wesley's words, this covenant is not a human invention but a divine promise. It's an acknowledgment that God's faithfulness far surpasses our own, and in our weaknesses, His strength is made perfect. Consider the scriptural foundation of covenant renewal. In the Old Testament, we see the Israelites renewing their commitment to God, and in the New Testament, Jesus inaugurates a new covenant through His sacrifice on the cross. The Covenant Renewal Service aligns us with this biblical tradition, emphasizing the continuity of God's redemptive plan. Today, as we partake in this sacred act, let us reflect on the blessings and challenges of the past year. Let's remember that our God is a God of second chances, and His mercies are new every morning. We are not defined by our mistakes but by the grace that abounds in Christ.

Conclusion
May this Covenant Renewal Service be a catalyst for personal and communal revival. Let it strengthen the bonds of our family of faith and inspire us to live out our Christian calling with passion and purpose. Let this be a simple way to tell others what we are about here at Shiloh Church; we are people living out a shared covenant of total devotion to Jesus Christ. So, let us embrace this sacred moment with open hearts, understanding that our covenant with God is not a static commitment but a dynamic relationship that grows and deepens with each passing day. Let’s suppose that what will say is recorded in Heaven and will be used in the LORD’s court on the day of judgment. I dare you to take the words you’re about to say so seriously that you can imagine them being heard and written down in God’s book of life.

A Covenant Prayer in the Wesleyan Tradition
I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee, exalted for thee or brought low for thee. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to thy pleasure and disposal. And now, O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen. ~ 

Echo 17 - Why Me, Lord?

Adrienne and Pastor Dan discuss the age old question of why bad things happen to "good" people. As always, we'll take a broad view and narrow it down to the fundamentals. Here, it could be a matter of unrealistic expectations. 

Echo 16 - Does the World Know You’re Ready?

Adrienne and Pastor Dan discuss the return of Christ and signs of readiness in Christian Believers. 

The Blessed Hope

Embrace the Advent Season with Hope and Anticipation! Join us this Sunday for a transformative sermon that delves into the profound connection between the anticipation of Christ's second coming and the dispensation of the Church. As we light the Advent candles, symbolizing the gradual illumination of the world by the Light of the World, we'll reflect on the Nativity narrative and the ultimate triumph of Christ over darkness. Whether you're curious about Dispensationalist theology or seeking a deeper understanding of the Rapture, this sermon promises to inspire and enlighten. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Advent, find solace in the Blessed Hope, and share the joy with your loved ones.

Echo 15 - Eyes Wide Shut

In this episode, Adrienne and Pastor Dan talk about the differences between the Greek worldview and the Judeo-Christian worldview. One is driven by the eyes, while the other is driven by the ears. 

God’s Light for The World

Pastor Dan's message is tied to Shiloh's annual family gathering, a congregational meeting to review the past year and set our sights toward the future. In this message he speaks of Hanukah and the menorah as a type of Christ's light illuminating the darkness of the world. 

Echo 14 -- O There young

Adrienne and Pastor Dan discuss last Sunday's message about Shiloh's journey over the last decade and where we find ourselves today. Much is said about making room for young people in the church and embracing their hunger for truth in love. 

Journey of Faith: Navigating Wilderness to Promised Hope

This time, we will briefly explore parallels with the Israelites' journey, find hope in Isaiah 40:3 & Mark 1:3. Discover the fulfillment of God's promises in Jeremiah 29:11 & Luke 2:10-11. Embrace change with unity inspired by Romans 15:5-6 & Ephesians 4:3. Envision Shiloh 2030, planting seeds of hope aligned with Romans 15:13 & Galatians 6:9. Recognize our journey in John 1:14 & Colossians 1:27, celebrating Christ's arrival. Beloved Shiloh family, our journey is sacred—a pilgrimage toward the light of Christ. 

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Echo 13--Mother Mary

Adrienne and Pastor Dan discuss the amazing Mary, mother of Jesus. Is she worthy of so much adoration? Well, yes, and no. Join us for another lively discussion.