For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Mark 8:36
The little children gathered money during the penny drill for our missionary after Dennis Yotter began service and Derrek Woodard and Jack Harp received the morning tithes and offerings. Pastor Scott led the congregation in prayer and praise for a great turnout for VBS, for the many teachers and workers and changed hearts and lives. Tara Stephens led the worship service with "Washed in the Blood," "Love Lifted Me" and "What a Day."
From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? John 6:66-67
Jesus had many followers, many marveled at His teachings and miracles, however, some teachings did not make sense to them and were hard to hear, so many left. We listen to the Word of God not for entertainment, but to let the Word work in us and through us.
And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. Mark 8:34-35
In the process of following Christ we must deny self. Not a self denial, or by our own power, but learning to lean on God and each other, because we cannot do it on our own. We must also take up our cross, we all have burdens to bear, but that should not keep us from coming to Christ. We can help one another along the way, even as Simon of Cyrene (Matthew 27:32) helped to bear the Lord's cross. We can find peace, joy, and assurance following Christ, Peter knew there was nowhere else to go, for only Jesus has the words of eternal life.
Pastor Scott gave the invitation and Dennis Yotter dismissed us in prayer.
Hilltop Mission is a nondenominational church located approximately 2.5 miles west of Anderson on Route F. Visitors are always welcome. For transportation or other needs contact Pastor Scott Leonard at 417-540-6573. For more information, please find us on Facebook or at hilltopmissionchurch.com.
Religion on 07/31/2014