THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION
Philippians 3: 7-11
If you ask an average group of people in the UK today: What is the most powerful force in the universe? These are some of the answers you may get: The power of the wind (tornados), the power of the waves (tsunamis), the power of energy (electricity etc), the power of war (nuclear warfare).
The Apostle Paul knew the true answer – the most powerful force in the universe was the power of the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Why? Because it had… and still has… the power to change lives.
In John 20: 24-28, we learn that Thomas the Doubter was changed by the resurrection Instead of being a pessimistic person, he became a mighty witness and there is evidence to suggest that he carried the Gospel message as far as India.
What about the disciples of Jesus. In John 20: 19-21 we are told that all the disciples were afraid – they were shut up for fear. Then the Day of Pentecost came and they preached Jesus to all the city at the Temple and then increasingly boldly to the known world of their time. What made the difference? Yes, the baptism of the Holy Spirit but underpinned by the sure knowledge that Jesus had risen from the dead.
Finally, the resurrection changed some people from despair to delight. Mary Magdelene was just one of a number of women who supported the ministry of Jesus and the disciples. She was at the cross of Jesus ( John 19:25) and she was at the tomb to anoint His body. No wonder she was in a state of despair at the death of our Lord. But that despair was turned to delight when she met the risen Lord ( John 20:11-18).
What kind of state do we find ourselves in today? Are we pessimistic or are we ready to become mighty witnesses in our own families and community? Are we afraid or ready to boldly preach the glorious gospel of salvation? Are we despairing or are we delighted about what God has done, is doing and will do in our own personal lives and that of His church?
“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)
BAPTISMAL SERVICE
Easter Sunday (16 April) will be a special time of joy and thanksgiving for Tabernacle as we will witness another young man testifying publicly that he has accepted Jesus as his personal Lord and Saviour by going through the waters of baptism.
Connor will be baptised in the evening service and we encourage you to invite friends and family to join us. Please pray that God will bless and protect him at this pivotal time in his life Also pray for Pastor Peter as he preaches and that others will respond to the gospel call.
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Speakers for Sunday Services in April
2nd: a.m. Pastor Peter Cho
p.m. Pastor Peter Palmer
9th: a.m. Pastor Peter Cho
p.m. Pastor Peter Palmer
16th: a.m. Pastor Peter Cho
p.m. Pastor Peter Cho
23rd: a.m. Rev. Suzanne Roberts
p.m. Pastor Peter Palmer
30th: a.m. Pastor Peter Cho
p.m. Mr John Thomas
On Sunday evenings, Pastor Peter Palmer is presenting a study on Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians.
Easter Services
13th: United Communion
Speaker: Pastor Peter Cho
14th: Good Friday
10.30a.m. & 7.00p.m.
Speaker: Rev. Simeon Baker
16th: Easter Sunday
a.m. Children’s Easter Play
p.m. Baptismal Service
EASTER EGGSPLAINED
Pupils from local schools will be visiting the Easter Eggsplained event at Tabernacle on Tuesday, 4 April. The event aims to explain to children in a simple but effective way the true meaning of Easter. We are again grateful to the Manager, The Co-operative Food, Station Buildings, Newbridge, who has supplied chocolate bars to give to each child at the end of the visit