Dear Church, This may be the last email from me before Jackie and I go on holiday for the next month. We are looking forward to a good rest, some adventure and quality time with our daughter.
Our conversation on Sunday centred on the John 20:19-31. In particular we wrestled with verse 23 – If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” What was not said is how this verse is most commonly applied. In many churches, Anglican, Methodist, Lutheran etc when Communion is taken, repentance of sins are prayed: “Father forgive us for we have not loved you with our whole heart and sinned in thought, word and deed.” Then, whoever is presiding will proclaim an absolution: “Your sins are forgiven.” It leans into 1 John 1:9 *“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”*
<www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=584cb5e0709a46cfd910d6685603ed74a103aba2131bda64675a866aa95170f6JmltdHM9MTc3NjAzODQwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=3e648646-8bbd-602b-0a38-97ae8fbd6ef7&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmlibG…> The disciples had the right to forgive sins. We as Christians, the church, can confidently proclaim that repented sins are forgiven.
Attached are the slides and sermon notes from Sunday. Also attached is the new version 2 roster. i have printed a number of these that can be collected from the sign in desk.
Over the coming weeks Darren Yates; David Woodward; Paul Featherstone and Craig Sadler will be sharing a message with us. I confidently believe that God will lead each of them to share a message that will encourage and strengthen us.
Make plans to come to the Combined Churches Pentecost Service. 6pm Sunday 24th May Hervey Bay Baptist. See you there. [image: new email signature.png]