Dear friends,

As you have no doubt heard, we have arrived safely in Uganda! If you have been reading these emails over the years, this may seem repetitive, but again, I continue to be amazed at God’s grace. Our flight was fine, all of our bags arrived, there were no officials to “greet” us at customs, and all of the children were awake at Canaan and waiting to greet us when we arrived about 12:30 am. It’s now about 9pm on Monday evening, and we are already full and overwhelmed with God’s love towards us and those at Canaan. Not yet here one full day, it feels like I’ve never left Canaan. There are wonderful differences, however.

The new dormitory is completed, and a wonderful addition to Canaan. The children have grown so much in only a year that I almost didn’t recognize some of them. We spent this morning unpacking and preparing for the various conferences that we will be leading, and in the afternoon the team visited Canaan Primary School (Isaac’s school for the community) and St. Moses School, where some of Canaan’s older primary students attend. We were able to deliver 5 computers to St. Moses the afternoon, and the teachers there seemed very, very grateful for these.

There’s already more to tell than I could possibly report in a dozen emails, so I guess that much of what we’ve already seen and done will have to have to wait.

As in previous years, we are hoping that we can report every day on how God has been working in and through us. Tu kwagala nyo (we love you all very much). Thank you for your love, support, and prayers – none of this would be possible without you!

In Christ, and for the Uganda Team,
John Keltonic

P.S. Erin, Josh, David, Julie, Jonathan, and Joel – YALA!

We just got a quick note from Tina Motley, “Good morning!!! We are all here in Uganda. All of our stuff made it as well. Will keep in touch. God is good!”

More info as we receive it! Leave comments for the team below.  They will read them as time / Internet connectivity permit.

Just a reminder:

• To receive notifications of these updates you can subscribe to the Stony Point Twitter feed.
• Email updates will be sent multiple times a week.
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Welcome to the 2010 Uganda Mission Project blog! This summer, June 26- July 10, Stony Point Church is sending a team to work in Uganda for our 11th consecutive year. The team this year is made up of twelve: Ed and Jonny Leaton, Sara Kennedy, Steve Wozny, Stephen Wozny, Frank Crane, Michael and Cindy Bryant, Tina Motley, Jack Wheeler, and John and Anita Keltonic.

As before, the team will be doing lots of different things including pastor’s teaching, teaching in local villages and schools, doing Bible Clubs, and medical work. Our main focus, however, is our work with Canaan Children’s Home, where the team will again be staying. Founded and run by Pastor Isaac Wagaba, this orphanage has become a home to over 100 children, 50 workers, and a clinic and primary school for the village of Buziika.

As in previous years, the team is going to try to update this blog daily (hopefully with pictures!) so that you can know what we’re up to and know how best to pray for us. Depending on lots of factors in Uganda – power outages, etc. – we may not be able to write every day, but we’re going to try. We’d love to hear from you as well! We covet your prayers, and your emails. Click here to email us.

So watch this space and, Lord willing, the next posting you see will be from the team in Uganda . Thanks again for all your prayers, support, and encouragement!

For the Uganda Team,

John Keltonic

Ephesians 1:15 – 19 • Series: Ten Things I Can Give You/ A Study in Ephesians • June 20, 2010

So Paul’s looking at the whole picture – the big sky – and it’s a thing of wonder for him. You can almost hear him whispering to himself in chapter 5: “Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her.  Look at what God has done. Look at the Church. Look at her!” Without seeing that, you will only pray for people you like, for people who do you good. Without seeing that, you won’t have any appetite to pray because there’s no real excitement in praying for yourself and your own plans. No, pray for others that God’s purposes will be fulfilled for them to God’s glory.”

 

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“Reality, in fact, is usually something you could not have guessed. That is one of the reasons I believe Christianity. It is a religion you could not have guessed. If it offered us just the kind of universe we had always expected, I should feel we were making it up. But, in fact, it is not the sort of thing anyone would have made up. It has just that queer twist about it that real things have. So let us leave behind all these boys’ philosophies–these over simple answers. The problem is not simple and the answer is not going to be simple either.” CS Lewis, Mere Christianity, chapter 7

My children are often reminded by their grandmother that there is a difference between ‘hard’ and ‘difficult’: ‘rocks are hard’, she reminds them, and ‘algebra is difficult’. And, ordinarily, I would agree with her – there is a difference. Yet when it comes to what Jesus sometimes said in the Gospels, there seems to be more similarity than difference.

To be sure, the sayings we are going to be looking at in this series are difficult: they are obscure or apparently contradictory or seem to support within Christianity an idea we have thought wasn’t possible. But why are we looking at them at all? Well, because they are also hard for us: there is an emotional sharpness in considering them or a leaden heaviness in trying to carry them in our minds or a wall of some kind in our way which is hard for us to break through to a better understanding of Jesus and His call on our lives.

They were hard in this sense for people in Jesus’s day. On one occasion When many of His followers heard Jesus speak and said, ‘this is a hard teaching, who can listen to it?’ and many of them deserted Him (John 6:60). So we understand that when we grapple with the hard sayings of Jesus, we’re not just entertaining an intellectual curiosity – as if to say: ‘That’s interesting, I wonder what Jesus could have meant by that?’ No, we are grasping tight hold of the promises of the Gospel and the Lord who teaches us and we’re pressing into something hard, asking Him: ‘Lord, stretch me, stretch my understanding of You and of the Gospel and stretch my commitment to You.’

Reality is usually something we could not have guessed. Certainly, reality spoken by the Lord of Heaven and Earth is something we couldn’t guess at but it is something we should yearn for to know Him better.

SERMONS FROM THIS SERIES

Luke 18 • “Will the Son of Man Find Faith?” • Constable

Matthew 5 • “Not the Smallest Letter” • George Lacy

Luke 6 • “Love Your Enemies” • Zac Collins

Matthew 25 • “I Do Not Know You” • Isaac Wagaba

Luke 2 • “And a Sword Will Pierce Your Own Soul, Too” • Constable

Luke 13 • The Falling Tower • Constable

Luke 12 • “I Have Come to Set the Earth on Fire” • Constable

Matthew 11 • “The Violent Bear it Away” • Constable

Luke 9 • “Leave the Dead” • Constable

Luke 10 • Satan, Snakes, and Scorpions, Oh My! • Percy Strickland

Matthew 16 • “On This Rock” • Constable

Matthew 12 • “Blasphemy Against the Spirit” • Constable

Mark 10 • “Easier For a Camel” • Steve Hall

Luke 14 • “Unless You Love Me More” • Constable

Mark 8 • “Yet Forfeit His Soul” • Constable

John 13 • “Unless I Wash You” • Constable

Ephesians 2:1 – 10 • Series: Ten Things I Can Give You • June 13, 2010

Here’s the paradox that powers the Christian life: your delight in God and His mercy will be inversely proportional to the extent that you believe you’ve deserved or earned it. In other words, the most generous Christians, the most joyous Christians, the most committed Christians are not those who’ve had most experience or most education or most discipline, but those who see simply as John Newton remembered: that they are a great sinner and that Christ is a great savior.

 

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Iron sharpens iron! Come join the Ironheads’ fans and root for the team that has the most fun in the league. Talent scouts expected at upcoming games! Video by Keallie Wozny.

Ironheads 2010 on Vimeo.

Click here for the SPC Mission Project Application Form (PDF) , Policies, Procedures, and Support Letter Guidelines.

Print, complete, and return the Application to the SPC Office. (2330 Buford Road / Richmond, VA 23235)

Hebrews 12:18 – 29 • June 6, 2010

Steve Hall serves as an Elder at Stony Point Church.

 

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Luke 18:1 – 8 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • May 30, 2010

What does the Bible say? Some things are too hard for you! Is that what Jeremiah tells God in Jeremiah 32 – some thing’s are just too hard for you; some things you can’t change, God – may your will be done in heaven because it can’t be done on earth. My friend’s out of work – God, You won’t sustain him; my wife despises Christianity – You won’t change her heart; my church, my city, my nation needs renewal, and God you might want it but you can’t bring it. Why do we say that? Because we are so consumed in our affluence with what we can do and we’re sure God can’t.

 

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A work in progress compiled by John Morgan

Sept 2005 (Updated June 2007)

john@johnrmorgan.com

Epistemology is the study of how we know or what convinces us that something is true.  Every child and adult has things they believe are true and each has some process, however under developed, that he/she uses to decide what to believe.  What does the Bible say about what we should give weight to?  What does the Bible teach that God thinks should convince people?

Following are selected verses related to epistemology.  Many contain words specifically related to the topic (evidence, witness, testimony, sign, proof, believe, know).  Others have words that may be more loosely related (realize, understand, saw, heard, believe).  However, many passages reveal an assumption or imply an epistemology without using these specific words.  Generally, the verses follow the order of the books of the Bible.  But, there are exceptions for various reasons, or none at all.

Genesis 21:30  And [Abraham] said “You shall take these seven ewe lambs from my hand in order that it may be a witness to me, that I dug this well.”

Genesis 31:48  And Laban said, “This heap [of stones] is a witness between you and me this day.”  Therefore it is called Galeed;

The lambs/stones become a physical reminder of what was agreed.  They are evidence.  If one party denies the agreement, they can point to the “witness” and ask “ what does this mean?  don’t you remember when we did this?”

Exodus 3 Moses saw a burning bush that was not consumed.  Bible believers know this because they believe the account in the Bible.  But, how did Moses know it?  His own eyes saw it.  If we cannot trust human senses, we cannot trust Moses’ eyes and we cannot trust his report.  Bible believers depend upon the reliability of human senses because the Bible’s authors depend upon them.

Exodus 3:12 And He said, “Certainly I will be with you, and this shall be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: when you have brought the people out of Egypt, you shall worship God at this mountain.”

Note that this sign (evidence) does not become available until after Moses is out of Egypt.  Thus, in this case, Moses must trust before he sees the objective evidence.

Exodus 4:8 If they will not believe you or heed the witness of the first sign, they may believe the witness of the last sign.

The word “witness” is literally “voice.”

Exodus 22:10-13  13  If it [an animal] is all torn to pieces, let him bring it as evidence; …

The Hebrew word for evidence here is normally translated “witness.”  A witness does not need to be verbal.  The appeal to evidence presumes an epistemology that values evidence.  It also presumes that we can trust our senses.  In our modern system this would be forensic evidence.

Lev 23:42,43  You shall live in booths for seven days; … so that your generations may know that I had the sons of Israel live in booths.
God seems to think that having an observance will make it more real for those who come after – cause them to know it at a deeper level.

Lev 26:9  So I will turn toward you and make you fruitful and multiply you and I will confirm My covenant with you.

By experiencing God’s blessing of fruitfulness, the Israelites would have greater certainty of God’s covenant.

Deut 18:21,22

You may say in your heart, “How will we know the word which the Lord has not spoken?”  When a prophet speaks in the name of the Lord, if the thing does not come about or come true, that is the thing which the Lord has not spoken.

The words of a supposed prophet will be judged by the events, external evidence.  If the words disagree with the evidence, the evidence (reality) wins.

Isaiah 19:20  And it [an alter/piller] will become a sign and a witness to the Lord of hosts in the land of Egypt. …

witness = mouth, sign = sign or mark or banner

Numbers 35:30  If anyone kills a person, the murderer shall be put to death at the evidence of witnesses, but no person shall be put to death on the  testimony of one witness.  (evidence = mouth).  6310

Multiple witnesses (lines of evidence), if they are consistent, confirm one another.  This is a fundamental principle of epistemology that is used by police investigators, judges, juries, scientists, parents, anyone who is trying to determine the truth of an issue.

Deut 4:3,9  “Eyes have seen”

God expects people to believe their eyes.

Deut 8:3  And He humbled you and let you be hungry, and fed you with manna which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that He might make you understand that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord.

God expected the Israelites to learn something from the experience even if He did not tell them directly.  God’s comment in Deuteronomy is not what is supposed to make the Israelites understand, it is the experience that contains the message – apart from the verbal commentary.

Deut 17:6; 19:15 and 2 Cor 13:1

Multiple witnesses are required to find someone guilty.  Consistency is expected.  Based on the original languages, a “witness” can be what we would call forensic evidence.

Deut 27

21 “Present your case,” the LORD says. “Bring forward your strong arguments,” The King of Jacob says.

22 Let them bring forth and declare to us what is going to take place; As for the former events, declare what they were, That we may consider them and know their outcome. Or announce to us what is coming;

23 Declare the things that are going to come afterward, That we may know that you are gods; Indeed, do good or evil, that we may anxiously look about us and fear together.

24 Behold, you are of no account, And your work amounts to nothing; He who chooses you is an abomination.

25 “I have aroused one from the north, and he has come; From the rising of the sun he will call on My name; And he will come upon rulers as upon mortar, Even as the potter treads clay.”

26 Who has declared this from the beginning, that we might know? Or from former times, that we may say, “He is      right!”? Surely there was no one who declared, Surely there was no one who proclaimed, Surely there was no one who heard your words.

27 “Formerly I said to Zion, “Behold, here they are.’ And to Jerusalem, “I will give a messenger of good news.’

28 “But when I look, there is no one, And there is no counselor among them Who, if I ask, can give an answer.

29 “Behold, all of them are false; Their works are worthless, Their molten images are wind and emptiness.

“Present your case” – as in a court of law, declare what is going to take place – fulfilled prophecy is evidence.

“As for the former events, declare what they were” – past events can be valid evidence

If you can’t get your history right – why should I believe your prophecy?

Indeed, do good or evil – a challenge to false gods to prove themselves.

Your work amounts to nothing – what the gods really do is nothing

Their works are worthless –

Joshua 2:9,10  Rahab knew that the Lord given the Land to the Israelites.  Not just because she had heard God had said He would but because she had heard about historical events.  This involves, trusting the reports, correlating the reports to what God is reported to have said and then drawing a conclusion.

Joshua 4

1 Now when all the nation had finished crossing the Jordan, the LORD spoke to Joshua, saying,

2 ” Take for yourselves twelve men from the people, one man from each tribe,

3 and command them, saying, Take up for yourselves twelve stones from here out of the middle of the Jordan, from the

place where the priests’ feet are standing firm, and carry them over with you and lay them down in the lodging place where you will lodge tonight.”

——-

6 “Let this be a sign among you, so that when your children ask later, saying, “What do these stones mean to you?’

7 then you shall say to them, “Because the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the

LORD; when it crossed the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off.’ So these stones shall become a memorial to the sons of Israel forever.”

——–

9 Then Joshua set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan at the place where the feet of the priests who carried the ark of the covenant were standing, and they are there to this day.

Putting the stones in the Jordon was the Lord’s idea.

The purpose was to be evidence or proof that the stories of the elders were true.

Judges

6:17  So Gideon said to Him, “If now I have found favor in Thy sight, then show me a sign that it is Thou who speakest with me.”

6:36,37  Then Gideon said to God, “If Thou wilt deliver Isradel through me, as Thou hast spoken, behold, I will put a fleece of wool on the threshing floor …

7:2  And the Lord said to Gideon, “The people who are with you are too many for Me to give Midian into their hands, lest Israel become boastful saying “My own power has delivered me.”

God wanted the evidence to be clear that Israel could not have effected victory.  That is how they would know it was the Lord.

10:11  And the Lord said to the sons of Israel, “Did I not deliver you from the Egyptians, the Amorites, the sons of Ammon, and the Philistines?  And when the Sidonians, the Amalekites and the Maonites oppressed you, you cried out to Me, and I delivered you from their hands.  Yet you have forsaken me and served other gods; therefore I will deliver you no more.

God appeals to history which the Israelites knew.  How did they know the history?  Did they personally live through the events?  Which events were so recent that the present participants would have lived through them?

13:21 [Manoah brings an offering to the messenger and flame went up from the alter toward heaven and the messenger ascended the in the flame.] Then Manoah knew that he was the angel of the Lord.

17:13  Then Micah said, “Now I know that the Lord will proper me, seeing I have a Levite as  priest.”

This is an example of someone coming to a wrong conclusion.  He reasoned wrongly.

18:5  And they said to him [an unnamed Levite], “Inquire of God, please that we may know whether our way on which we are going will be prosperous.”

I Samuel

3:1-10  God calls Samuel but Samuel does not recognize that it is the Lord.  After three times Eli recognized that it was the Lord calling Samuel.  How does Eli know?

3:19,20  Thus Samuel grew and the Lord was with him and let none of his words fail.  And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was confirmed as a prophet of the Lord.

6:9  And watch, if it [the cows pulling the cart with the ark] goes up by the way of its own territory to Beth-shemesh, then He [the Lord] has done us this great evil.  But if not, then we shall know that it was not His hand that struck us; it happened to us by chance.

The Philistines would be able to detect God’s intervention by seeing cows behave in an unnatural and directed manner.  This would cause them to interpret previous events and thereby know something.  They were essentially doing an experiment.

2 Sam 5:12  And David realized that the Lord had established him as king over Israel, …

David came to know (realized) something by evaluating the situation he saw around him.  Because this was consistent with God’s promise, it gives credibility to God’s word.

2 Sam 12:19  But when David saw that his servants were whispering together, David perceived that the child was dead; so David said to his servants, “Is the child dead?”  And they said, “He is dead.”

David saw something and concluded that it meant something else was true – deductive reasoning.  He then asked a question and was told something.  This was consistent with the other evidence and confirmed it.  One can assume that David then went and saw the dead child.  One might say that when David saw the whisperers he knew and when he was told he really knew and when he saw the dead child he was certain.

1 Kings 8:42-43  Even foreigners know something about God by hearing about answered prayer

1 Kings 12:19  So Israel has been in rebellion against the house of David to this day.

The original readers could have verified Israel’s continuing rebellion from their own experience.  This tends to give credibility to the previous history because it is consistent with and explains the present.

1 Chr 17:7-8 God expects that past experience with His faithfulness will give faith to believe promises not yet fulfilled.

2 Chr 9:6  Nevertheless I did not believe their reports until I came and my eyes had seen it.

2 Chr 18:27 And Micaiah said, “If you indeed return safely, then Lord has not spoken by me.”  And he said, “Listen, all you people.”

The prophesy was to be judged by the reality.
God does not expect people to respond “Well we know it was God’s word so even though the king looks like he returned safely, we know he is dead.”

2 Chr 34:19  And it came about when the king heard the words of the law that he tore his clothes.

Josiah reacted this way because he realized (came to know) something.  He correlated the words with the reality and knew that he and Israel were in sin.  This involves awareness of reality, belief in words heard and some reasoning.

Prov 18:17  The first to plead his case seems just, until another comes and examines him.

It is easy to believe a report (know/think it is true) when there is nothing to contradict it.  The proverb anticipates people holding knowledge tentatively, waiting until more is known.

Isa 1:18  Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “Though your sins are as scarlet,  They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool.

Isaiah 60:16  …You will also suck the milk of nations, and will suck the breast of kings; then you will know that I, the Lord, am you Saviour, and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob.

Ezekiel has a recurring phrase (59 times) indicating that an event will occur

(and/then/that/thus/so)

(they/you/the nations)

(may/will/shall)

know that I am the Lord

6:13,14;   7:27;   11:10,12;   12:15,16,20;        13:9,21,23;   14:8,23;   15:7;   16:62;  20:26,38,42,44;  23:49;  24:24,25;  25:5,7,11,14,17;  28:22,23,24,26;   29:9,16,21;    30:19,25,26;   32:15;                 33:29   34:27   35:9,12,15;    36:11,23,36,38;  37:13,14,28;  38:23

39:7,22,28;

17:21 – and you will know that I, the Lord, have spoken

21:5 – thus all flesh will know that I, the Lord, have drawn My sword out of its sheath.

22:22 – and you will know that I, the Lord, have poured out My wrath on you.

33:29 – so, when it comes to pass – as it surely will – then they will know that a prophet has been in their midst

34:30 – “Then they will know that I the Lord their God am with them, and that they, the house of Israel, are my people,” declares the Lord.

36:23 – then the nations will know that I am the Lord

So what is it that God thinks should convince people?  Is it simply because a prophet says something that we should believe whatever is said?  How does this relate to Christians expecting people to believe something because it is in the Bible?

Dan 1

Daniel proposes an experiment with a control group.  The result will cause the officials to become convinced that Daniel’s diet would be a good thing.

Dan 2

What was Nebuchadnezzer’s epistemology?  What would cause him to know he could trust Daniel’s interpretation of the dream?

I Cor 15 – Paul gives a reasoned defense of the Ressurection

A “sign” may be a reminder but it is evidence which serves as a reminder

The sign of the covenant

Rom 1:4 who was declared the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead

The resurrection is evidence of Jesus’ divinity.

Rom 1:19, 20 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it known to them.  For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

The creation itself is evidence which does not need words to communicate.  It speaks independent of the Bible.

Hebrews 11:1  Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

The Greek word ELEGMOS is translated “conviction” in NASB and “evidence in KJV.  It has the meaning of a proof or a test.

Psalm 19

1 The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.

2 Day to day pours forth speech, And night to night reveals knowledge.

3 There is no speech, nor are there words; Their voice is not heard.

4 Their line has gone out through all the earth, And their utterances to the end of the world.

The creation itself is evidence which does not need words to communicate.  God seems to expect people to trust creation.  After all, why should the universe lie or deceive?

Acts 17:2, 3 And according to Paul’s custom, he went to them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ.”

Giving evidence:  Greek paratithemi – to place beside or set before

reasoned:  Greek dialegomai – to think different things with oneself, to ponder, then to dispute with others

Acts 17:11  Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily, to see wheter these things were so.

1Cor 1:22,23   For indeed Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness

Mark 1:24, 25 … saying, “What do we have to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth?  Have you come to destroy us?  I know who You are – the Holy One of God!”  And Jesus rebuked him, saying “Be quiet, and come out of him.”

Jesus did not want His identity proclaimed (and debated) until He had done more deeds that would be evidence.

Mark 2:25  And [Jesus] said to them “Have you never read what David did when he was in need and become hungry …”

From the context, Jesus expects his hearers to have concluded something from their knowledge of scripture.  Would Jesus expect the same from someone who is just being introduced to the Bible?

Mark 14:59 And not even in this respect was their testimony consistent.

Mark seems to think that consistency of evidence is important.

Luke 1:4 … so that you might know the exact truth about the things you have been taught.

Luke is assuming that the reader will accept what is written and thereby know.

Luke 16:30, 31 The end of a parable: But he said, “No, Father Abraham, but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent!”  But he said to him, “If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be persuaded if someone rises from the dead.”

John 1:18 No man has seen God at any time; the only begotten God, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained (revealed) Him.

John 1:46 And Nathanael said to him, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?”  Philip said to him, “Come and see.”

John 3:2 [Nicodemus] came to Him by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”

John 3:12 If I told you earthly things and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you heavenly things?

John 4:47, 50, 52 Based on what he had heard, the official believed (to some degree) that Jesus could heal.  After meeting Jesus, he believed enough to stop asking and head home.  When he got word from his servants and correlated the times of the events, that evidence really convinced him and he believed.  Note the process and the degrees.

John 5:36 But the witness which I have is greater than [that of] John; for the works which the Father hath given me to accomplish, the very works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.

John 6:26 Jesus answered them and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.”

John 7:17 If any man is willing to do His will, he shall know of the teaching, whether it is from God, or whether I speak from Myself.

John 10:37-38 “If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; but if I do them, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, so that you may know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.”

John 13:35 By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.

John 14:29 Now I have told you before it happens, so that when it happens, you may believe.

Jn 4:46-54  Here Jesus seems frustrated that the people need signs (v 48 which are visible supernatural evidence.  But He recognizes their epistemology.  The official correlates the actual time of healing to the time of the command and that causes him to believe.

Acts 9:22 Proving something from Scripture.  Note that this is an audience that already has had sufficient evidence to believe Scripture.

1 Cor 15:5, 6  Multiple witnesses should make a report more credible.

1 Cor 15:12-16  Here Paul is starting from something that the Corinthians had accepted.  Paul uses reasoning to show that if one thing is true then another must follow.  This shows that reasoning can start from something accepted on faith.

Gal 2:2  And it was because of a revelation that I went up; and I submitted to them [the other Apostles] the gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but I did it in private to those who were of reputation, for fear that I might be running or had run in vain.

Paul knew something by revelation.  But, even though Paul had been preaching the gospel, there seems to have been an edge of doubt which was removed when he received approval from the Apostles.  This was also supposed to give also give the Galatians confidence in Paul’s message.  The Galatians can know that Paul’s preaching is true because it was confirmed.

Note also Gal 2:6.

2 Tim 1:12  … for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him …
What is different about knowing something because you know WHO has told you?

1 John 1:1-3 John begins by appealing to the fact the he has personally seen, heard and touched and therefore should know.

Luke 1:13,18-20 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John.

…

Zacharias said to the angel, “How will I know this for certain?  For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years.”  The angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and bring you this good news.  And behold, you shall be silent and unable to speak until the day when these things take place, because you did not believe my words …

Zacharias had some evidence that had persuaded him for years that he would never have children.  Gabriel seems to think that his appearance in that situation should be enough evidence to make his words believable regardless of past evidence.  What would it take to instantly change  a belief that you, the reader, have held for, say, 40 years?

What is your epistemology?

As you read through the Bible you can ask yourself these questions:

1)  If the human author expects something to convince the reader, what is the author’s assumption about the reader’s epistemology?

2)  If a character in the account comes to know or believe something, how did he come to know or believe it?

3)  If a character in the account expects something to convince another person in the account, what is the implied epistemology?

Other verses with implications related to epistemology:

Gen 3:7; 4:10; 8:11; 9:24; 15:1, 8+; 18:21

Gen 20:6,7; 31:48, 52; 37:33; 38:9

Ex 6:7; 7:5, 17; 8:10, 22; 9:14, 29; 10:2

Ex 14:4, 18, 31; 16:12; 18:11; 29:46; 33:13

Num 14:31,34; 16:28-30; 20:14; 22:6, 34

Deut 7:8, 9; 8:2, 5, 18; 9:2, 3, 6, 7; 11:2;

Deut 22:14-17; 29:4-8,16; 31:19, 21, 27, 29

Judg 2:10; 6:12-13, 17, 36-37; 13:21; 15:11;

Judg 18:5-6

Ruth 3:18

1 Sam 1:23; 2:30; 3:13, 19; 4:8; 10:9; 12:17

1 Sam 13:10; 17:46-47; 18:28; 20:3, 7, 12

1 Sam 20:30, 33; 22:22; 24:10-11, 20; 25:17

1 Sam 26:4; 28:1, 9, 14

2 Sam 3:25; 5:19, 23-24; 6:8; 7:25, 12:30, 32

2 Sam 14:1, 20; 18:18; 19:6, 22; 22:26-27

2 Sam 24:2

1 Kgs 1:14; 2:15, 37, 42; 3:23; 8:20, 26, 53

1 Kgs 8:56, 59-60; 9:9, 27; 10:6; 11:9; 12:26

1 Kgs 13:18, 32; 14:2, 5; 16:34; 17:16, 24

1 Kgs 18:24, 37, 39; 20:13, 28; 22:7, 28, 38

2 Kgs 2:5, 10, 17-18; 4:1, 39; 5:8, 15; 7:14

2 Kgs 8:12; 15:5; 17:13-14; 19:19, 29, 32

2 Kgs 20:8, 19;

1 Chr 11:3; 14:2; 16:8, 17-18; 21:28; 28:19

2 Chr 6:14-15, 33; 7:12; 11:2, 4; 12:8; 13:5

2 Chr 15:8; 20:15; 25:16; 32:31; 33:12-13

Jos 3:7, 10; 4:23; 14:6; 22:26, 27; 23:13-14

Isa 7:11-14; 8:18; 10:25; 11:3-4; 45:3, 5-6

Jer 2:19, 23; 3:2; 11:3-5, 28:9; 32:6-8

Dan 5:22; 9:11-12

Mat 2:4-5, 13, 16 ; 6:28-30; 7:29; 9:6

Mat 11:3-6, 21, 27; 12:33, 38-39; 13:11

Mat 18:16; 22:29-32; 25:25-27

Mark 1:34; 2:10; 3:23-27; 4:41; 6:4, 20

Mark 8:17-21, 9:7, 24; 10:42; 11:33; 15:39

Mark 16:11, 13, 14, 20

Luke 1:34; 2:15, 26, 49; 3:1-2; 4:25, 27

Luke 5:23-24; 6:8; 7:20, 22, 39; 8:10, 24

Luke 9:44-45, 47; 10:17; 11:15-17;

Luke 12:2, 54-56;

John 2:9, 11; 4:19, 39, 41; 5:26, 36, 39

John 6:2, 14, 30 ; 7: 31; 8:18; 8:52

John 9:16, 24-25, 29-31; 10:21; 11:45; 12:50;

John 13: 19; 14:7, 11; 15:24; 17:23; 18:21

John 19:10; 20:25, 30; 21:6-7, 24

Acts 1:3, 19; 2:16, 22 42; 3:21; 9:26

Acts 10:28, 34-35, 47; 12:1, 9, 11

Acts 13:12, 35-37; 14:3, 17; 15:14-15

Acts 16:9-10; 17:2-3, 11, 17, 24; 18:9, 28;

Acts 19:8, 11, 35-36; 20:32; 21:11-13; 22:30

Acts 24:10, 11, 13; 25:20; 26:4, 13-19, 26, 28

Acts 27:10, 11, 23-25, 28; 28:4-6, 18, 24, 28

Rom 1:18, 2:2, 14; 4:19, 20; 16:26

1 Cor 1:6-7; 2:11; 4:19; 8:7; 12:2-3;

1 Cor 14:11, 22; 15:5-6, 12

2 Cor 5:6-7; 8:1, 9; 9:2; 12:2-3; 13:2-3

Gal 1:8, 11, 16; 3:2; 4:13

Eph 1:9; 3:2-4, 10, 19; 6:21

Phil 1:12

1 John 2:3, 29; 4:2, 20; 5:13, 18-20

This paper makes no claim to have listed all verses with epistemological implications.

Points about epistemology

• Everybody has an epistemology, some way they decide what to believe.
• It starts with experience.
• Experience with people leads to trusting specific people
• By the time reason kicks in, a person “knows” many things and trusts many people.

Trusting everyone would be gullible.

Trusting no one would mean we need to learn everything directly.

• Our experience includes the faith of the people around us.

May give certainty about things like the Bible or Qu’ran.

• All experience must be interpreted

Most experiences have little emotional/intellectual content to interpret

Children are good observers but terrible interpreters

• Feelings are part of our experience.  We may “know” someone dislikes us because we feel rejected.
• What we know becomes a grid through which we interpret/accept/reject new knowledge

Selective memory

Cognitive dissonance – selective perception

Things that don’t fit into our grid feel ‘wrong.”

• Faith in a book (Bible/Qu’ran) is built on many layers of knowing

General experience with the world

Opinions of others we trust

Social expectations

Reason interacting with the words and experience

• Experience with God can cause some to begin trusting God
• Experience with others who trust God can cause some to trust God

Points about epistemology from the Bible

God expects believers and unbelievers to believe our senses.

Throughout the Bible, believers and unbelievers are shown to rely on evidence and consistency of evidence in determining what to believe.

God expects both believers and unbelievers to be able to know things by reasoning from things they already know either from experience, prior reasoning or because they have believed a report.

God expects that past experience of His faithfulness is evidence that should give faith to believe yet to be fulfilled promises.

God expects fulfilled prophesy to be persuasive to both believers and unbelievers.  In evaluating a prophesy, the events are the final measure of truth.

God believes that the testimony of creation without testimony from Scripture is sufficient to cause men to seek Him if they were not willfully ignorant.

God expect believers to accept His Word.

Kim Greene resides in Richmond, Virginia, where she lives with her husband, Kevin, and their two children, Emma and Coleman. She grew up around the United States as the daughter of an Air Force officer, and graduated with a psychology degree from Wake Forest University in 1989. She and Kevin have been married, and in ministry in Richmond since 1990. She worked for nine years on staff with InterVarsity Christian Fel­lowship, discipling students at the University of Richmond and Virginia Commonwealth University, and training other staff. She currently spends her time raising Emma and Cole, and partnering with Kevin at West End Presbyterian Church, where he is the associate Pastor. She works part-time at the church in Women Leadership Development, writing curriculum, training leaders, disci­pling, and counseling women. She regularly has the opportunity to speak at conferences for women, and enjoys seeing and speaking about how the gospel of Jesus Christ works itself out in our daily lives, to God’s glory.

Matthew 5:17 – 10 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • May 23, 2010

“In light of Jesus’ first coming, what do we do with the Old Testament? It matters to Jesus, so it should matter to us.”

George Lacy serves as a Pastoral Intern at SPC.

 

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Luke 6:27 – 36 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • May 16, 2010

In Luke 6, Christ is teaching on the New Kingdom and it is countercultural for the audience.  He says that we handle wealth, and power and fame differently because of our citizenship in His Kingdom.  He says that we must love, yes, even our enemies.  Not because it’s the moral thing to do and certainly not by our own willpower, but because we are His children.  As such, our identity in Him establishes our lifestyle.

Zac Collins is Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at SPC.

 

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CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS OF THE 2010 MEN’S SPRING RETREAT

Steve Wozny • April 14, 2010

You might notice a difference in some of the men at SPC.  They’ve “put their rocks on the table.”  They are determined not to “let someone touch their milk before they pour it on their cereal.”  Once again, God did some good work among us some weekends ago at the Stony Point Men’s Retreat, entitled “Christ and Man – The Death of Commercial Christianity”.  Besides hanging out with Dimas Salaberrios and picking up some Bronx-ese, the weekend was stuffed with God-work on hard projects – men’s hearts. They might be the hardest of all rocks to crack, but open they did.  Many SPC men may look back at this weekend as a milestone where God took them to a place they have needed to go for a long time.

I am always amazed at this paradox.  Have you noticed that even if you’ve been on many retreats, it’s an act of faith just to get out of the house for one?  Something always seems to grab you with some good reason for not going.  You’re too tired – run down, really.  Even not-so-good reasons seem suddenly enticing.  You need to change your oil, fix your mother-in-law’s plumbing, or clean the gutters.  This is all of us.  We prefer to hide and ignore the problem.  Or wear our Sunday masks like armor – letting no one in and (sadly) no one out.   What grabbed me right from the start of this retreat was that Dimas anticipated this, and we were consistently challenged on a number of man-issues, each of which Dimas reminded us were “every man’s battle.”

Before I get into this stuff, some words need to be said about our accommodations at Bear Creek State Park.  Ladies, it was truly a hardship, but we took it like men.  The brand new, modern, high ceiling chalets were a tiny bit ostentatious and a bit big to be cozy, but we dealt with it.  The steaks on Saturday night were huge and a bit thick, but we couldn’t let them go to waste.  Unfortunately, we spent all sunny Saturday afternoon playing boring old sports.  And you certainly wouldn’t have enjoyed at all the constant conversation and moments of deep sharing.  Too emotional and transparent!  Too willing to admit our need of God!

Indeed, the food, fellowship and worship were superb!  In fact, the digs and grub organized by the Francis-Park-Maroon team had once again their signature stamp of excellence the men have shamelessly come to expect.  One of the things I most enjoy about SPC’s Men’s Retreats is the ebb and flow of conversation.  Inevitably, friendships are forged or renewed as guys get a chance to hang out in a less trivialized way than (sadly) Sunday morning.  In fact (preceded by an excellent time of worship led by Garret Maroon and a Michael Bryant rap song about Dimas that can best be described as “sick in a good way”), Dimas gently mocked our PCA standard two-minute “greeting” during Sunday morning worship by contrasting it with the idea of a full, hang-out sincere, take-your-time greeting.  We knew we were gonna be challenged this weekend.
One of the first things Dimas shared on Friday night was his experience of going to Haiti to help during the recent earthquake.  Actually, it was his story of how he made the decision to go there.  As the situation unfolded in Haiti, Dimas felt God was calling him to go.  So he and his three buddies saddled up and were ready to ride.  But what Dimas shared next threw us all for a loop.  It seems each of the four guys’ spouses did not in the least think they should go!  Each came up with great reasons for them to stay home.  At this point, the average guy would have succumbed to the logic.  But Dimas is not an average guy.  Despite the heavy opposition, Dimas was certain this was God’s idea for him to be in Haiti.  So despite strong opposition, he went.   No matter how you might like to parse it, this “Uh-oh” moment was all about leadership – a thing we men often struggle with.  So Christ and Man – The Death of Commercial Christianity began with a big challenge to be unabashed leaders.

Since I have been going to SPC for six years, a staple has been the Saturday morning breakfasts and testimonies of guys in SPC.  If a retreat is like a great feast, it was quite fitting that Dan Larramore gave his testimony this Saturday morning.  A mere side dish of scrambled eggs it wasn’t!  It was an amazing banquet of God’s grace, and it perfectly set the stage for what Dimas shared next.  Wanna see grown men squirm?  Put ‘em in a circle and talk about three things: their walk with the Lord, their role as leaders in their home, and how they deal with sexual temptation.

Dimas put three questions in a plain paper bag.  Each guy picked one “by chance.”     It was awkward, difficult, and frightening to answer – but it was liberating, too.  One of the themes of the retreat was to drop the masks we wear.  It was a very powerful moment, to get the question and try to answer it honestly, and it was a holy time to listen as we all sensed Christ among us.  We were reminded that we are not alone in our struggles.  I think each of us was challenged in many ways by not only our own responses, but in how we listened to others.  Fittingly, later Saturday evening, the guys heard of the small groups going on in SPC.  The three questions were a big arrow to encourage the men to get down to discipleship, not the status quo, commercial Christianity.

A lot more can be said, but all too often more is said than done.  Dimas preached to us Sunday morning to go the extra mile.  Transparency, leadership, discipleship – these may be taught in a weekend, but can only be learned in a lifetime.  There’s a reason our retreat is held in spring.  A smile, an honest word, a meal together, a sharing of struggles – we men hope these will grow and bear fruit in our relationships, but we need to go the extra mile and disciple one other and our family if we want to be real and not fake it to ourselves and to the world.  We need to man up.  I hope God uses this weekend for years to come.

The Legend of Dimas Salaberrios

This is the legend of Dimas Salaberrios
Listen up good dudes – ‘cause this is serious
The punk becomes the man
The fool becomes wise
And ends up preaching to the Stony Point guys

The legend got started when Dimas was born
He was 6 foot tall – like a stalk of corn
Dimas grew up in the usual way
Thinking only of himself
Going his own way
He was running with the crowd of ill repute
He was doing any drug he could smoke or shoot
Beating up the boys that he didn’t like
Hitting on the girls then taking a hike
He was rapping up a storm that was fast and loud
He was saying anything that would please the crowd
He was cussing
He was fussing
He was doing his thing
He was selling his soul to make the cell phone ring
All his pockets were full of money
On his left & right there was a real hot honey
He had everything that a man could want
Showing off everything a man could flaunt
But on the inside Dimas was nothing but void
His heart was empty and his mood annoyed
He tried everything that a man could try
Nothing he would do could ever satisfy
Like King Solomon

He can’t get no satisfaction
He can’t get no satisfaction
He can’t get no satisfaction
When he was riding ‘round the world
He was doing this and he signing that
He was trying to make some girl
Telling him baby come back next week
‘Cause I see you’re on a losing streak
You can’t get no…
Oh no, no, no
Hey, hey, hey
That’s what I say

He was living the life – but it was a lie
Dimas, the legend, was ready to die
There was too much pain
There was too much sin
Enough’s enough
Why not just cash in?
But one day when Dimas was out on a limb
He remembered that Jesus Christ died for him
Jesus lived the life that Dimas should have tried
And Jesus died the death Dimas should have died
And on that day Dimas fell to his knee
Asking God to save him
Begging please, please, please
Please, please, please
Please, please, please

The rest of the story is his to tell
Serving the Lord & staying out of hell
The living legend lives on today
Preaching the Gospel in the Bronx River way
Loving the Church like it was his wife
Living the dream of abundant life
We’re real glad to have him preach to us
Long as he don’t go old school and cuss
So come on Legend
Don’t be egregious
Open your Bible
And tell us about Jesus
Come on, Dimas Salaberrios
Dimas Salaberrios

TRUTH OR NONSENSE

Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”

Either this amazing claim is true or Christianity is nonsense. Jesus left no room for compromise.  There is no middle ground. Through the centuries, millions of people from all over the planet have, when they weighed the evidence, placed their trust in Jesus and believed His Gospel message. But most, for one reason or another, have not. Now the time has come.  It’s your turn to consider Jesus’ claims and to stand with Him or against Him.  It’s time for you to get off the fence. It’s time for you to stop playing games.

Whatever you think about Jesus right now – whoever you say He is – you are welcome at Stony Point Church.  Come worship Jesus with us on Sunday mornings. Hear what the Bible has to say about His life, death, resurrection and what it all means for you. See how following Jesus has transformed the lives of people who really trust Him. Visit a group to study Christian doctrines and life, pray, and care for one another. Develop some Christian friendships. Use your time and talents to serve others in the church. See if your faith in Jesus grows. Go with one of our teams to serve the poor in Jesus’ name.  See how Jesus works through us and in us to accomplish good and great things.  Maybe you will see Jesus in us.  Maybe, just maybe, you will find that He is working in you – showing you His way, teaching you the truth, slowly bringing you to life. What do you have to lose?  What do you have to gain?

COME

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”

On Sunday mornings, Christians from every race, IQ, nationality, and socio-economic status gather together to worship Jesus, their living God. They thank Him for the way He is blessing them. They praise Him for His goodness and greatness. They seek to know Him better, to trust Him deeper, to learn from Him, and to find rest for their souls. They are reminded that Jesus is more perfect and pure than they had feared or imagined. He is holy. And they are surprised to discover that He is much more merciful and gracious with us than they had dared to hope. He is love.

If you are weary of living on your own, with God in the suburbs of our life or not even in the same town, come worship with us. If you are burdened by the guilt, shame, and pain of mistakes you have been making or really bad choices you have made, come worship with us.  Seek the rest that many of us have found in Jesus. Find rest for your soul. If you think that now is the right time to turn your life around, worship is a very good place to begin. At Stony Point Church, we worship together every Sunday morning beginning at 8:30 and again at 11:00. Come worship with us.

GROW

Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

It’s pretty clear that Jesus expects something of those who claim to follow Him. He expects that they will stay connected to Him, drawing life and power from Him like a branch draws life and the power to bear fruit from a vine. He expects that they will grow and bear much fruit. He expects that they will ask Him for help.

Throughout the week, in homes all over Richmond and at SPC, Christians meet together to talk about how Jesus, through the power of His Spirit, is changing them from the inside out, growing their faith, and bearing fruit in their lives. They talk together about their struggles and their successes. Living the Christian life is never easy. So they pray together, asking God to help them stand firm, to overcome challenges, to grow, and to bear much fruit. There is work to be done to keep our church going.  So they serve together in teams – teaching, leading, preparing meals, cleaning up, and a hundred other ways – to demonstrate their faith through love.

Whether you have been a Christian since yesterday or all of your life, Jesus expects that you will be making and deepening friendships with other Christians.  He expects that you will put your time and talents to use serving others. At Stony Point Church, we grow as we fellowship in groups and serve on ministry teams. If you are ready to grow, maybe it’s time to join a group or ministry team. Contact the church office or check out the website for opportunities. Grow in Jesus.

GO

Jesus said, “Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

The life cycle of Christian faith reaches maturity – its natural end – not in a sanctuary, or a prayer closet, or Bible study classroom, but in common places – the ones you’d least expect: at home, in the workplace, on the ball field, and in the produce department at the grocery store. When a Christian husband humbly loves his unbelieving wife well, when a Christian employee does her work with selfless integrity, when a Christian student sits down at lunch with the new, friendless kid, when a Christian businessman, to his own disadvantage, reveals some overlooked details in an upcoming deal, when a Christian co-ed says no to the Big Man on Campus – that’s when skeptics take note.  That’s when doubters, seeing how Jesus is changing us, wonder if there might just be something to following Jesus, after all. When our families, co-workers, fellow students, and neighbors see the peace, hope, and joy that is growing in us as we follow Jesus, they may want some of it for themselves.  They may finally accept our invitation to come with us to worship. They may hear the Gospel and believe.

At Stony Point Church, we try to let our light shine – doing good deeds and telling people about Jesus’ rescuing love – by organizing ourselves in service to unbelievers in and around Richmond, as well as all over the world. But our most significant and challenging witness to the transforming power of Jesus’ Gospel is right where we live – everyday in our families, schools, companies, and communities.

THE DILEMMA

So, here’s the dilemma. Are you a skeptic, a doubter, or a seeker? Are you a person who’s not sure you’re a Christian – not even sure you want to be one? Commit yourself to coming to worship and thoroughly investigating the claims and promises of God in the Bible.  Get to know some real Christians. Peek behind their masks. Don’t make the mistake of expecting perfection or purity.  But do expect to find change –moral and psychological improvement – over time. Give it some time. Dig deep. Be real.

Are you finding that you are slowly beginning to believe what the Bible teaches about what’s real: about creation, about you, about Jesus? Are you ready to plant some roots, make some real friendships, and see some real change? Do you want to dig deeper into the truth, learn how to pray, or start to serve God with your time and talents? Commit yourself to a group or ministry team and grow.

Are you willing and ready to let your light shine? Join a Mission Team. Love your neighbors. Invite an unbelieving friend to worship with you. Watch Jesus transform you, the people you know and love, your city and your world. Go with the Gospel.

Come. Grow. Go.

Matthew 25:1 – 13 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • May 9, 2010

Pastor Isaac Wagaba is the Founder /Director of Canaan Children’s Home in Buziika, Uganda, and the pastor of Jinja Free Gospel Church.

 

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GOD AND CREATION

1. Who made you?

• God made me.

2. What else did God make?

• God made all things.

3. Why did God make you and all things?

• God made me and all things for His own glory.

4. Who made God?

• Nobody made God.

5. Has God ever had a beginning?

• No, God has always been.

6. Will God ever die?

• No, God lives forever.

7. How can you glorify God?

• I can glorify God by trusting Him and doing what He commands.

8. Why are you to glorify God?

• I am to glorify God because He made me and takes care of me.

9. Is there more than one true God?

• No, there is only one true God.

10. In how many persons does this one God exist?

• God exists in three persons.

11. Who are the three persons of God?

• The three persons of God are the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

12. What is God like?

• God is a spirit and does not have a body like man.

13. Where is God?

• God is everywhere (omnipresent).

14. Can you see God?

• No, I cannot see God, but He always sees me.

15. Does God know all things?

• Yes, nothing can be hidden from God (omniscient).

16. Can God do all things?

• Yes, God can do all His holy will (omnipotent).

17. Does God ever change?

• No, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

18. Is God trustworthy?

• Yes, God is always faithful and true.

THE BIBLE

19. Where do you learn how to trust and obey God?

• I learn how to trust and obey God in the Bible alone.

20. Who wrote the Bible?

• Men who were chosen and guided by the Holy Spirit wrote the Bible.

21. Why did they write the Bible?

• They wrote the Bible to reveal to us who God is and how to trust in Him.

MANKIND

22. Who were the first people God created?

• Adam and Eve were the first people God created.

23. How did God make Adam’s body?

• God made Adam’s body out of the dust of the ground.

24. How did God make Eve’s body?

• God made Eve’s body out of a rib from Adam.

25. In addition to their bodies, what did God give Adam and Eve?

• God gave them souls that could never die.

26. Do you have a soul as well as a body?

• Yes, all people have souls that can never die.

27. When God first made Adam and Eve, what were they like?

• They were holy and happy with God.

THE COVENANT OF WORKS

28. What covenant, or serious agreement, did God make with Adam?

• He made the covenant of works.

29. What did Adam have to do in the covenant of works?

• He had to obey God perfectly.

30. What did God warn in the covenant of works?

• If Adam disobeyed, he would surely die.

31. Did Adam keep the covenant of works?

• No, Adam sinned against God.

SIN (THE FALL)

32. What is sin?

• Sin is failing to do what God commands and doing what God forbids. (Sins of omission and sins of commission)

33. How did Adam and Eve sin?

• They did what God had forbidden by eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

34. Who tempted Adam and Eve to sin?

• Satan, God’s enemy, tempted Eve first, and then he used her to tempt Adam.

35. How did Adam and Eve change when they sinned?

• Instead of being holy and happy, they became sinful and miserable.

36. How did Adam and Eve respond to their own sin?

• They were ashamed and hid themselves from God.

37. What effect did their sin have on their relationship with God?

• They became separated from God.

38. Did Adam act for himself alone in the covenant of works?

• No, Adam represented all mankind.

39. How did Adam’s sin affect you and all mankind?

• Because of Adam’s sin, we are all born guilty and sinful.

40. What does every sin deserve?

• Every sin deserves God’s anger and punishment.

41. How does God punish sinners?

• He casts sinners into hell.

42. What is hell?

• Hell is a place of darkness and suffering, far away from the presence of God.

RESCUE (REDEMPTION)

43. Are all sinners cast into hell?

• No, some sinners are rescued.

44. Who rescues sinners from being cast into hell?

• From the beginning, God has had a plan to rescue sinners.

45. What is God’s plan for rescue or salvation?

• John 3:16 tells us:  “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

46. Who is God’s one and only Son?

• God’s one and only Son is Jesus Christ.

THE COVENANT OF GRACE

47. What covenant, or serious agreement, did God the Father make with Jesus Christ?

• In His mercy, God the Father made the covenant of grace.

48. What is mercy?

• Mercy is withheld punishment – God not giving us what we deserve.

49. What is grace?

• Grace is unearned blessing – God giving us what we don’t deserve.

THE PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST

50. What did Jesus Christ have to do in the covenant of grace?

• Jesus Christ had to become a man, live a sinless life, and suffer for sinners.

51. Did Jesus Christ become a man?

• Yes, Jesus Christ “became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14a ESV)

52. Did Jesus Christ ever sin?

• No, though He was tempted, Jesus Christ never sinned.

53. How did Jesus Christ suffer physically for sinners?

• Jesus Christ was humiliated, beaten, and nailed to a cross to die.

54. How did Jesus Christ suffer spiritually for sinners?

• Jesus Christ bore our sins on the cross, which caused Him to be separated from God the Father.

55. Why did Jesus Christ have to suffer and die for sinners?

• Jesus Christ was punished in our place, to make atonement for our sins.

56. What is meant by atonement?

• Through atonement, we are made at one with God the Father.

57. Did Jesus Christ act for Himself alone in the covenant of grace?

• No, Jesus Christ represented His people – the Church.

THE PROMISES OF GOD

58. What did God the Father promise to do in the covenant of grace?

• God the Father promised to justify, sanctify, and glorify those who trust and follow Jesus Christ.

59. What is justification?

• Justification is the act of God, as Holy Judge, pardoning sinners and declaring us righteous.

60. What is sanctification?

• Sanctification is the process by which God makes us holy in heart and behavior.

61. What is glorification?

• Glorification is the completion of God’s work of salvation, when He makes us perfect and holy in body and soul, so that we may enter heaven.

THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

62. What must you do to be saved?

• Romans 10:9 tells us:  “If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is LORD,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

63. Can you confess “Jesus is LORD” by your own power?

• No, I must have the help of the Holy Spirit, who changes my heart.

64. How does the Holy Spirit change your heart?

• The Holy Spirit leads me to repent, to put my faith in Jesus Christ, and to live a holy life.

65. What does it mean to repent?

• To repent is to feel so sorry for my sin that I turn away from it.

66. What does it mean to put your faith in Jesus Christ?

• To put my faith in Jesus Christ means to believe God’s Word and trust in Jesus alone for my salvation.

67. What does it mean to live a holy life?

• According to Micah 6:8, the LORD requires us “to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your LORD.”

SALVATION BEFORE JESUS’ DEATH AND RESURRECTION

68. How long ago did Jesus Christ die?

• Jesus Christ died about 2,000 years ago.

69. How were sinners saved before Jesus Christ came?

• Before Jesus Christ came, sinners were saved by trusting God’s promise to send a Savior.

70. How did those people show their faith before Jesus Christ came?

• They showed their faith by obeying God’s commands and offering animal sacrifices for their sins.

71. What did these sacrifices represent?

• These sacrifices represented Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who would shed His blood to take away the sins of the world.

72. After Jesus Christ died and rose again, did God require animal sacrifices?

• No, Jesus Christ was the perfect and final sacrifice, satisfying God’s justice once for all.

THE OFFICES OF JESUS CHRIST

73. How many offices does Jesus Christ have?

• Jesus Christ has three offices.

74. What are the three offices of Jesus Christ?

• The three offices of Jesus Christ are prophet, priest, and king.

75. How is Jesus Christ our prophet?

• Jesus Christ is our prophet because He teaches us the will of God.

76. How is Jesus Christ our priest?

• Jesus Christ is our priest because He offered Himself as the sacrifice for our sins, and He continues to pray for us.

77. How is Jesus Christ our king?

• Jesus Christ is our king because He rules over us, providing for our good and protecting us from evil.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

78. How many commandments did God give on Mount Sinai?

• God gave ten commandments.

79. What do the first four commandments teach us?

• The first four commandments teach us how to love God.

80. What do the last six commandments teach us?

• The last six commandments teach us how to love people.

81. What is the first commandment?

• The first commandment is: “You shall have no other gods before Me.”

82. What does the first commandment teach us?

• The first commandment teaches us to worship God alone.

83. What is the second commandment?

• The second commandment is: “You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.  You shall not bow down to them or worship them…”

84. What does the second commandment teach us?

• The second commandment teaches us to worship God only as He commands, without making and worshiping idols.

85. What is the third commandment?

• The third commandment is:  “You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God…”

86. What does the third commandment teach us?

• The third commandment teaches us to honor God’s name, His Word, and His works.

87. What is the fourth commandment?

• The fourth commandment is:  “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”

88. What does the fourth commandment teach us?

• The fourth commandment teaches us to set aside one day in seven for rest and worship.

89. What is the fifth commandment?

• The fifth commandment is:  “Honor your father and your mother…”

90. What does the fifth commandment teach us?

• The fifth commandment teaches us to love, obey, and respect our parents.

91. What is the sixth commandment?

• The sixth commandment is:  “You shall not murder.”

92. What does the sixth commandment teach us?

• The sixth commandment teaches us to value human life and to live at peace with everyone.

93. What is the seventh commandment?

• The seventh commandment is:  “You shall not commit adultery.”

94. What does the seventh commandment teach us?

• The seventh commandment teaches us to be faithful in marriage and to keep our hearts pure.

95. What is the eighth commandment?

• The eighth commandment is:  “You shall not steal.”

96. What does the eighth commandment teach us?

• The eighth commandment teaches us to respect the property of others and to work for what we have.

97. What is the ninth commandment?

• The ninth commandment is:  “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.”

98. What does the ninth commandment teach us?

• The ninth commandment teaches us to tell the truth and to protect the reputations of others.

99. What is the tenth commandment?

• The tenth commandment is:  “You shall not covet…anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

100. What does the tenth commandment teach us?

• The tenth commandment teaches us to be content with who we are and what we have.

101. According to Jesus, what is the sum of the Ten Commandments?

• “‘Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:37-40)

102. Of what use are the Ten Commandments to us?

• The commandments reveal God’s holiness, our sinfulness, and our need for a Savior.

THE SACRAMENTS

103. What is a sacrament?

• A sacrament is an outward and visible sign of an inward and invisible grace.

104. How many sacraments are there in the New Testament?

• There are two sacraments in the New Testament.

105. What are the two sacraments?

• The two sacraments are Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

106. Who established these sacraments?

• The Lord Jesus Christ established these sacraments.

BAPTISM

107. What sign is used in baptism?

• The sign used in baptism is washing with water.

108. What does this washing with water represent?

• The washing with water represents our cleansing from sin by the blood of Jesus Christ.

109. In whose name are we baptized?

• We are baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

110. What does baptism call us to be?

• Baptism calls us to be true followers of Jesus Christ.

THE LORD’S SUPPER

111. What is the Lord’s Supper?

• The Lord’s Supper is a remembrance of Christ’s death on the cross and a looking forward to His return.

112. What are the elements used in the Lord’s Supper?

• The elements used in the Lord’s Supper are bread and wine.

113. What does the bread represent?

• The bread represents the body of Christ, given for us.

114. What does the wine represent?

• The wine represents the blood of Christ, poured out for the forgiveness of sins.

115. Who is worthy to receive the Lord’s Supper?

• Those who examine their hearts and find an attitude of repentance, faith, and obedience to Jesus Christ are worthy to receive the Lord’s Supper.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

116. What is prayer?

• Prayer is talking to God our Father:  confessing our sins, telling Him our needs, and thanking Him for all He has done.

117. In whose name do we pray?

• We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, the only mediator between God and men.

118. What guide has Jesus Christ given us to teach us how to pray?

• Jesus Christ has given us the Lord’s Prayer.

119. Recite the Lord’s Prayer.

• “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. “

120. What does the beginning of the Lord’s Prayer teach us?

• The beginning of the Lord’s Prayer (Our Father which art in heaven) teaches us to draw near to God with reverence and confidence, praying with and for others.

121. How many petitions are there in the Lord’s Prayer?

• There are six petitions in the Lord’s Prayer.

122. What is the first petition?

• The first petition is “Hallowed be thy name.”

123. What do we pray for in the first petition?

• We pray that God will help us and others to honor His holy name.

124. What is the second petition?

• The second petition is “Thy kingdom come.”

125. What do we pray for in the second petition?

• We pray that God would rule in our lives and bring others to believe and obey His Word.

126. What is the third petition?

• The third petition is “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”

127. What do we pray for in the third petition?

• We pray that God would help us to do His holy will and accept His perfect will in all things.

128. What is the fourth petition?

• The fourth petition is “Give us this day our daily bread.”

129. What do we pray for in the fourth petition?

• We pray that God would supply our daily needs.

130. What is the fifth petition?

• The fifth petition is “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.”

131. What do we pray for in the fifth petition?

• We pray that God would pardon our sins by the blood of Jesus Christ and make us willing to forgive others.

132. What is the sixth petition?

• The sixth petition is “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

133. What do we pray for in the sixth petition?

• We pray that God would keep us from being tempted to sin, or provide an escape when we are tempted.

134. What does the conclusion of the Lord’s Prayer teach us?

• The conclusion of the Lord’s Prayer (For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever) teaches us that God is sovereign over all things, and we can approach His throne with confidence that He will hear and answer us.

THE GOSPEL AND FINAL JUDGMENT

135. What is the gospel of Jesus Christ, by which we are saved?

• The gospel, or good news, is this:  “. . . that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. . . .” (I Corinthians 15:3b-4)

136. Where is Christ now?

• Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us.

137. Will Christ come again?

• Yes, Christ will come in glory to judge the living and the dead.

138. What happens to man when he dies?

• The body returns to dust, and the soul goes either to the presence of the LORD or to a place of torment.

139. Will the bodies of the dead be raised to life again?

• Yes, when Christ returns, the bodies of the dead will be raised to face judgment.

140. What will happen at the final judgment?

• Christ will judge every man according to his deeds and separate the righteous from the unrighteous.

141. What will become of the unrighteous?

• The unrighteous will be condemned to everlasting punishment and cast into the lake of fire.

142. What will become of the righteous?

• The righteous will be rewarded for their good deeds and spend eternity with Jesus Christ.

MARCH 2010

GIVING • $71, 259

EXPENSES • $93,668

• Staff • $37,436 (40%)
• Operations • $15,013 (16%)
• Missions • $41,219 (44%)

DEFICIT • $22, 407

ACCOUNT BALANCES • $199,466

FEBRUARY 2010

GIVING • $79,026

EXPENSES • $72,900

• Staff • $35,285 (48%)
• Operations • $15,784 (22%)
• Missions • $41,219 (30%)

SURPLUS • $6,133

JANUARY 2010

GIVING • $71,125

EXPENSES • $65,326

• Staff • $34,462 (53%)
• Operations • $15,013 (22%)
• Missions • $16,176 (25%)

SURPLUS • $5,800

Luke 2:34 & 35 • Series: The Hard Saying of Jesus • May 2, 2010

“This is the way the Kingdom comes for Jesus’ followers. In God’s severe mercy there is suffering before glory. There is a cross before the crown. The more you think about it – for Mary, interacting with a real God in a real world with a real mission,  there would be a real cost. This had to be the path for Mary.”

 

 Standard Podcast [38:16m]: Play Now | Play in Popup | Download (72)

From Stony Point Church • Allow about 30 minutes travel time

• Take Buford Road to Forest Hill Ave. (about .5 miles)
• Turn LEFT on Forest Hill Ave. & go to Huguenot Road
• Turn LEFT on Huguenot Road & go to Robious Road (about 3 miles)
• Turn RIGHT on Robious Road/ Route 711.
• Robious Road/Route 711 becomes Huguenot Trail/ Route 711.
• Go just under 17.5 miles on Huguenot Trail/Route 711.
• Turn LEFT on Cedar Creek driveway (a gravel road across from Timberview Drive) Look for flags to mark the way from here. If you get to Route 522, you have gone a little too far.
• Turn RIGHT off of gravel driveway on grass driveway just past small pond on your right
• Turn LEFT off of grass driveway & follow it into the woods to the pond.
• Park along the driveway on the hill, set your parking brake, & have fun.

Need to go potty or get bait? There is a Citgo gas station & convenience store on the right as you travel west on Route 711, about 5 minutes from the intersection of 711/ 288.  You can usually buy live bait there.  You can always do your other business.  Note – there are no restrooms at Cedar Creek Pond, so go before you come or plan to use one of our many trees.

NURSERY LEADERSHIP

• Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries • Zac Collins
• Nursery Director of Staffing • Soo Pepper
• Nursery Director of Facilities • Donna Wellman

NURSERY TEAM COORDINATORS & SCHEDULE

• Team #1 – Angie V • 5/9, 6/27, 8/15, 10/3, &  11/21
• Team #2 – April F • 5/16, 7/4, 8/22, 10/10, & 11/28
• Team #3 – Judy J • 5/23, 7/11, 8/29, 10/17, & 12/5
• Team #4 – Joyce F • 5/30, 7/18, 9/5, 10/24, & 12/12
• Team #5 – Laura T • 6/6, 7/25, 9/12, 10/31, & 12/19
• Team #6 – Lisa C • 6/13, 8/1, 9/19, 11/7, & 12/26
• Team #7 – Irene B • 5/2, 6/20, 8/8, 9/26, & 11/14

Full SPC Nursery Teams are listed below.

MISSION STATEMENT

Jesus tells us in His word, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)  In following Jesus’ teaching, the Stony Point Church Nursery Ministry endeavors to provide safe, secure, and loving care to infants and toddlers so their parents are free to participate in Sunday morning activities.  We love parents by caring for their children in a manner worthy of their complete trust.  We love the children by meeting their needs and loving them unconditionally.

JOB DESCRIPTIONS

• STAFFING DIRECTOR • Responsible for 1) recruiting, scheduling and training Coordinators, 2) recruiting and scheduling Caregivers for regular nursery shifts, 3) distributing nursery information to Coordinators, Caregivers and parents, and 4) record keeping.
• FACILITY DIRECTOR • Responsible for 1) cleaning and maintaining the nursery facilities, fixtures, equipment and toys and 2) keeping the nursery stocked with supplies.  Both Directors work together to establish and promote the Nursery Ministry Team Mission, Policies and Procedures.
• NURSERY TEAM COORDINATORS • Responsible for leading her team of 12 to 14 nursery Caregivers on Sunday morning once every seven weeks.  The church office will send out postcard reminders two weeks prior to the team’s scheduled Sunday.  Coordinators are encouraged (not required) to contact their team the week before, either by email or phone call.  The coordinator also:

1. Oversees the operation of the nursery for both services and the Sunday school hour, ensuring that our Mission is accomplished and that policies and procedures are followed.
2. Assigns children and Caregivers to nursery rooms.
3. Oversees the registration and reception of children in the nursery, and greets parents and their children.
4. Oversees the pickup of children from the nursery.
5. Advises, supports and encourages the Caregivers on her team in nursery set up, childcare, and clean up.
6. Launders crib linens and blankets used during the morning.
7. Assists the Directors with recruiting Caregivers and suggests creative ways to improve the performance of the nursery ministry team to the Directors.

• CARE-GIVERS • Scheduled to work with a nursery team under the leadership of a Coordinator once every seven weeks.  He/She will serve during the 8:30 worship service, Sunday school hour or 11:00 worship service.  The Caregiver also:

1. Provides safe, secure, and loving care to the infants and toddlers.
2. Holds, rocks, sings to, plays with, reads to, changes, feeds, comforts, giggles with, guides, and listens to children.
3. Takes children to the bathroom.
4. Sets up, cleans up, and takes out the trash.
5. Responsive to his/her Coordinator and serves with a cheerful heart and a smile.

POLICIES & PROCEDURES

• SAFETY & SANITATION

1. The nursery must be kept neat, clean, and sanitary.  Before the first shift, the Coordinator and Caregivers will ensure that everything is in its place, all trash is discarded, and cribs have fresh sheets and blankets.  After the last shift, everything will be put back in its place, trash and dirty diapers taken to the dumpster, swings and changing tables disinfected, “dirty toys” washed, and used sheets/blankets removed from cribs.  (A “dirty toy” is one that a child has gotten bodily fluids on.)
2. Caregivers will let the parent know when a child has a fever or otherwise seem too sick to be in the nursery and advise them of the nursery’s Well-Child policy for accepting children that are healthy and not putting other children at risk of getting sick.  The policy is posted outside the nursery doors and in the Parents Guide to the SPC Nursery (copies available in the lobby).  If a Caregiver thinks a child is sick after the parent has left, they should consult with the Coordinator.  The Coordinator will use their wisdom and discretion about the child’s health, and if necessary, locate the parent and let them know about the nursery’s Well-Child policy.
3. Caregivers will wash and sanitize their hands before each shift, after each diaper change, and after wiping the noses and mouths of the children in their care.
4. Caregivers will place all “dirty toys” in the Dirty Toy Bucket (in the bathroom) after a child has played with it.
5. Caregivers will prevent the children from playing with broken or dangerous toys.  They will either discard or place the toys in the Broken Toy Bucket (in the bathroom) for repair or replacement.
6. Caregivers will watch for and remove all small objects that can be put into the mouth and cause choking or suffocation.  Any repair needed to the nursery (i.e. chipped paint, loose fixtures) should be reported to the nursery directors.
7. Caregivers will store all cleaning supplies and plastic bags out of reach of the children.
8. Caregivers will loop all loose mini-blind cords, ropes and strings out of reach of children.  They will never put a rope, string, or ribbon around a child’s neck.
9. Caregivers will play gently and safely.  They will never roughhouse or horseplay, or otherwise risk danger to the children.
10. Caregivers will never leave a child alone on a changing table or counter.  They will always remain with and hold these children securely to prevent falls.  They will never allow children to climb on chairs, table, doors, or counters.

• SECURITY

1. Parents will always sign their children into the nursery.  Parents will take a numbered tag, write the number and child’s name on a label, and place the label on the child’s back.  Caregivers will receive the child and/or diaper bag and place the diaper bag on a hook.  Caregivers will also write the name of the child next to the corresponding hook letter on the white board above the hooks.  Children will be released only to parents or siblings who return with the tag unless the Caregiver knows the non-parent returning with the tag.  Caregivers will not release a child to someone they don’t know unless they have the child’s matching numbered tag.  A special exception is made when a parent asks that their child be escorted by a Caregiver to a Sunday school class.  Parents or Caregivers will label sippy cups to avoid confusion.
2. Child Drop Off & Pick Up – Parents of infants may enter the infant nursery with their infants to drop them off or pick them up.  (One parent per infant, please – spouses and siblings should remain in the hallway.  Light traffic makes for happy, healthy, secure babies.)  Parents of toddlers should remain in the hallway when they drop off and pick up their toddlers from the toddler nursery.  The Caregivers will receive and return toddlers at the door.  Parents who wish to be informed in the event that their children become excessively unhappy, should make a note to the Caregivers when they sign their children in.  After parents have dropped their children off, they should stay out of sight unless they intend to pick their children up.  When children see their parents, they often become distressed.
3. Caregivers will never leave a child unattended in the nursery.
4. When Caregivers take a child to the nursery bathroom, they will stand at the open restroom door unless the child needs assistance.  The door will remain ajar.
5. If children require their parents, Caregivers will locate the parent and bring him or her to the child, not bring the child to the parent.  (Discretion is permitted here, as determined by the parent’s wishes and the Coordinator’s wisdom).
6. After the last shift, Caregivers will close the window blinds and loop the blind cords out of reach of children.  This is for security purposes.
7. Caregivers will discourage “visitors” (siblings, friends, etc.) in the nursery.  Only infants, toddlers, Caregivers and, when needed, parents should be in the nursery.
8. Caregivers will always see to it that every child’s basic needs for food, warmth, comfort, sleep, a clean diaper, cuddling, smiles, friendly speech, and play are met.  They will refer to the “Child Development Tips” chart for help in knowing how to meet other typical needs of the children in their care and increase their sense of security.
9. All adult Caregivers will complete SPC Volunteer Application & Participation Agreement forms and submit to a Child Protective Services and/or State Police Criminal History/Sex offender records search and screening.
10. In the event of an emergency evacuation of the church building, the Nursery Ministry Team will carry, escort, and transport (using a reinforced crib on wheels) the children outside, across McRae Road, and to the Bon Air Elementary School parking lot.  The Deacons of the Month will assist the Nursery Team in their evacuation.  Parents should NOT come to the nursery to pick up their children.  They should meet them, as soon as possible, at the Bon Air Elementary School parking lot.  Caregivers will stay with the children until all parents arrive.

• LOVE & TRUST

1. Caregivers will be there.  If they cannot serve with their team, they will switch with someone on another team.  They will inform their Coordinator and the church office about the switch as soon as possible.  Adults will switch with adults.  Teens will switch with teens.
2. Caregivers will be on time.  Coordinators and Caregivers will try to be in the nursery at 8:15 for the 8:30 worship shift, at 9:30 for the Sunday school shift, and 10:45 for the 11:00 worship shift.
3. Caregivers will listen respectfully and follow the instructions of parents (especially concerning foods and medical situations).  When parents request things that Caregivers cannot do or are uncomfortable with, Caregivers will direct them to speak to the Coordinator.  Caregivers give the primary care.  The Coordinator will help the Caregivers do their job by coaching and prompting them.  Caregivers should appreciate this guidanCaregivers will check diapers at least once per hour and change when necessary.  They will change diapers that need immediate attention as soon as possible to avoid further mess and discomfort for the child.  They will try to send every child home in a clean dry diaper.
4. Infants will receive only food and bottles brought in their diaper bags.  Caregivers will feed and bottle infants as necessary or according to parental instructions.  Toddlers may receive a snack of goldfish and water at some point during each shift.  Children who cannot have goldfish because of food allergies will not be given a snack unless a snack is provided by the child’s parent.  Caregivers will write food allergy notices on the white board in the toddler nursery.

• WELL-CHILD POLICY • Healthy children are welcome in the nursery.  Children who do not meet the following criteria put other children at risk of getting sick and must remain with a parent .  A parent may be asked to return to the nursery to pick up their less-than-well child. For a 24-hour period prior to being dropped off in the nursery, the child must:

1. be fever free without medication,
2. not have had any vomiting and/or diarrhea, &
3. not have had any serious undiagnosed skin rashes that could be contagious.

NURSERY TEAMS & SCHEDULE

Thank you for your willingness to serve SPC’s infants and toddlers.

If you are unable to fulfill your nursery duty, here’s what to do:
1.  Try contacting someone on another team to switch dates.
2.  If you need further assistance or need help with names, contact your Coordinator.
3.  If you are unable to reach your Coordinator, call the Director, Soo P. at 405-5004.
4.  Once you have found a substitute, please inform your Coordinator and the church office of the change.

TEAM #1 ~ COORDINATOR: ANGIE V

• Dates •  5/9, 6/27, 8/15, 10/3, &  11/21
• 8:30 Worship ~ Faye M, Eileen O, & Hope L
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ John H, Michele M, & Liz or Andy B
• 11:00 Worship ~ Yates D, Kathy A, Diane M, Michaux A, & Mary Katherine D

TEAM #2 ~ COORDINATOR: APRIL F

• Dates •  5/16, 7/4, 8/22, 10/10, & 11/28
• 8:30 Worship ~ DeeDee A, John A, & Sue G
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ Linda J, & Barb C
• 11:00 Worship ~ Murphy P, Debi H, Tim G, Meg P, Sydney D, Chloe S, & Nina M

TEAM #3 ~ COORDINATOR: JUDY J

• Dates •  5/23, 7/11, 8/29, 10/17, & 12/5
• 8:30 Worship ~ Katie H, Lesa A, & Emma A
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ Cindy B, Katherine C-R, & Jenna G
• 11:00 Worship ~ Sue J, Karen H, Laura H, Kate S, & Laurin D

TEAM #4 ~ COORDINATOR: JOYCE F

• Dates •  5/30, 7/18, 9/5, 10/24, & 12/12
• 8:30 Worship ~ Dale O, Paige O, & Alyssa W
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ Jenny H, Anna B, & Eric or Laura E
• 11:00 Worship ~ Sloan H, Victoria R, Jean S, Chrissy C, Ben C, & Connor H

TEAM #5 ~ COORDINATOR: LAURA T

• Dates •  6/6, 7/25, 9/12, 10/31, & 12/19
• 8:30 Worship ~Elizabeth G, Kathi P, & Vanessa P
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ Chuck or Dawn J, Debbie or Frank M, James W,
• 11:00 Worship ~ Mary Jo E, Danny T, Donna W, Elaine D, Abby D, & Mari Claire L

TEAM #6 ~ COORDINATOR: LISA C

• Dates •  6/13, 8/1, 9/19, 11/7, & 12/26
• 8:30 Worship ~ John M, Liz K, & Morgan C
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ Michaux H, Jen H, & Ashley W
• 11:00 Worship ~ Rick M, Sue V, Dan V, Matt G, Sam P, & Jordan B

TEAM #7 ~ COORDINATOR: IRENE BROWN

• Dates • 5/2, 6/20, 8/8, 9/26, & 11/14
• 8:30 Worship ~ Anne M, Katie J,  & Bill A
• 9:45 Sunday School ~ Laura M, Sharon W, & Lynn L
• 11:00 Worship ~ Jeanette D, Andrea A, Ryan D, & Katelyn F

CHILD DEVELOPMENT TIPS

Each child develops at his or her own pace.  Use these descriptions as general guidelines, not rules.

SPC MEMBERS & FRIENDS CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR WORK

• HUGH A
• JAMIE M
• BOB M
• BRUCE S
• MELISSA S
• MARK V
• DREW M
• DAN V • Accounting and Finance
• CARLA S • Teacher (Chinese, ESL, Middle School or Elementary – all subjects; high school – Biology, Geography & open to other subjects) & Wildlife Management (have degree from Texas A&M and experience trapping and banding birds)
• SAM P
• SUSAN P • Sews window treatments and home fashion accessories.  Wallpaper removal.  Free estimates.
• WES S

LOCAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES THAT HAVE COME TO OUR ATTENTION

• OFFICE JOB • entry level; requires skills in Micro Soft Word/Excel, and reception. Source: Anonymous
• ADMINISTRATIVE JOB • McGuire Research • full-time person.  No health benefits, but pay scale is great.  Source: Shelly Dahlstrand

If you have information about new job opportunities in the area, would like to be added to the list of people looking for work, or would like to make a connection, please contact Michael Bryant.

Vacation Bible School begins this summer on Sunday, July 11, at 5:30, with our VBS Kick Off Cookout. VBS will be in session each morning, Monday (7/12) through Friday (7/16), from 9 AM to Noon.  VBS will end in worship on Sunday, July 18 at 11:00 AM.  Children from the age of four (on 9/30/10) to those who have just completed Fifth Grade are encouraged to enroll and to bring all their friends and neighbors. Everyone else is invited to join the VBS Ministry team and participate in every aspect of this summer’s VBS: SPACE PROBE.

• To volunteer to serve on the VBS Ministry Team, contact Zac Collins (272-8111).
• To register your children, please print, complete, and submit the Vacation Bible School Registration Form at your earliest convenience.  You may mail the form to Stony Point Church / 2330 Buford Road / Richmond, VA 23235 or drop it by the church office.

Click here to upload and print: VBS REGISTRATION FORM

Luke 13:1 – 9 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • April 24, 2010

“You see, if we follow our reasoning – why me? why the innocent?- it surely opens equally uncomfortable questions: Why is it that we got to live? Can we say that we’ve deserved that more than those in the news this week who’ve suffered or died? No, this is the biblical marker: All have sinned. All are guilty. No one gets to play the innocence card.”

 

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This is the legend of Dimas Salaberrios
Listen up good dudes – ‘cause this is serious
The punk becomes the man
The fool becomes wise
And ends up preaching to the Stony Point guys

The legend got started when Dimas was born
He was 6 foot tall – like a stalk of corn
Dimas grew up in the usual way
Thinking only of himself
Going his own way
He was running with the crowd of ill repute
He was doing any drug he could smoke or shoot
Beating up the boys that he didn’t like
Hitting on the girls then taking a hike
He was rapping up a storm that was fast and loud
He was saying anything that would please the crowd
He was cussing
He was fussing
He was doing his thing
He was selling his soul to make the cell phone ring
All his pockets were full of money
On his left & right there was a real hot honey
He had everything that a man could want
Showing off everything a man could flaunt
But on the inside Dimas was nothing but void
His heart was empty and his mood annoyed
He tried everything that a man could try
Nothing he would do could ever satisfy
Like King Solomon

He can’t get no satisfaction
He can’t get no satisfaction
He can’t get no satisfaction
When he was riding ‘round the world
He was doing this and he signing that
He was trying to make some girl
Telling him baby come back next week
‘Cause I see you’re on a losing streak
You can’t get no…
Oh no, no, no
Hey, hey, hey
That’s what I say

He was living the life – but it was a lie
Dimas, the legend, was ready to die
There was too much pain
There was too much sin
Enough’s enough
Why not just cash in?
But one day when Dimas was out on a limb
He remembered that Jesus Christ died for him
Jesus lived the life that Dimas should have tried
And Jesus died the death Dimas should have died
And on that day Dimas fell to his knee
Asking God to save him
Begging please, please, please
Please, please, please
Please, please, please

The rest of the story is his to tell
Serving the Lord & staying out of hell
The living legend lives on today
Preaching the Gospel in the Bronx River way
Loving the Church like it was his wife
Living the dream of abundant life
We’re real glad to have him preach to us
Long as he don’t go old school and cuss
So come on Legend
Don’t be egregious
Open your Bible
And tell us about Jesus
Come on, Dimas Salaberrios
Dimas Salaberrios

• Many thanks to Brad Howren,who helped me record this song to welcome Dimas Salaberrios to the Men’s Spring Retreat at Bear Creek Lake State Park in 2010.   It’s kind of rough, but I hope you get the idea & enjoy it….M. Bryant

 

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Luke 12:49 – 53 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • April 18, 2010

What awaits each of us, you see, what we are moving towards daily, is either, in Latin, consumere or consummare. We will either be consumed by what’s eating us and by the fire that awaits it, or we will be completed, consummated, caught up in God’s Spirit forever. Either way, sooner or later we each of us face fire – with Jesus or without Him.

 

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Matthew 11:7 – 15 • Series: The Hard Sayings of Jesus • April 11, 2010

“This is where revolutionaries still stumble, isn’t it – strikingly both conservatives and liberals, both radicals and reactionaries stumble at this very point?! If I see the injustice, if I see the grand cause – is it my glory, my rightness, my words, my ultimate means that will bring it about?”

 

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