Dear Church Family,

The following statement is just a reminder for us all that there is a place for topical Bible study and preaching.  Some today criticize this approach as proof texting but it is a Scriptural approach and one that is indeed valid though careful and prayerful study are required.   Consider what Stephen did in his sermon in Acts 7 and what Jesus did on the road to Emmaus.  They both approached their discourses using a topical method of study.

The jewels of truth lie scattered over the field of revelation; but they have been buried beneath human traditions, beneath the sayings and commandments of men, and the wisdom from heaven has been practically ignored. Satan has succeeded in making the world believe that the words and achievements of men are of great consequence. There are veins of truth yet to be discovered, but spiritual things are spiritually discerned. One passage of Scripture will prove a key to unlock other passages, and in this way light is shed upon the hidden meaning of the word. By comparing different texts treating on the same subject, viewing their bearing on every side, the true meaning of the Scriptures will be made evident.

White, E. G. (1913). Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students Regarding Christian Education (p. 437). Pacific Press Publishing Association.

In the news:

1. This Sabbath I will be sharing a message on the theme of Adventist Education. We will conclude our service with a prayer of dedication for the teachers in our church.
2. There will be a fellowship lunch this Sabbath with the Nelson team hosting.
3. The last of the AYA’s featuring “Family Worship” is this Sabbath, August 5. For those who haven’t been to the first two, you still have a chance to come and learn and have good holy fun.  You may even have a chance to win some very nice gifts for the family in the last quiz given.  Here are a few quotes from a mother and a grandmother who have attended previously–“I wish my boys would want to come to other church meetings as they have wanted to come to these two AYA’s”–The grandmother says  “My grandson half dragged me to AYA he wanted to go so bad.”  Come see what all the excitement is about at 7:30.
4. School registration took place this past Wednesday with 73 students registering.  This week as I drove by the school, I saw the new fence going up around the lot that was purchased a year ago to extend our playground.  Pretty exciting indeed! 
5. This Sunday from 8-2pm, there will be a work bee at the school. Everyone is invited to come out and help us get ready for the new school year.  Lunch will be provided.
6. Volunteers are still needed for the Greene County Fair Booths. We have both a health ministry booth (Contact Rhoda Kanna) and a GAA booth (Contact Fred Myers.)
7. Those helping with the health van booth at the fair are asked to meet after church this Sabbath on the piano side for a brief organizational meeting.
8. This Sunday from 4-7pm there will be a Luau at the Christiensen home. This is sponsored by our church social committee.  For more details click here.
9. Our Bible study on Ezekiel will resume this Wednesday at both 10:30 am and 6:30pm.
10. Our church camp out was a great success with roughly 70 in attendance on Sabbath morning at the little white church in the wildwood. We will discuss plans to have another campout again next summer at our next church board as the feedback was very positive.  Here are some pictures from last weekend.

Blessings as you prepare for the coming Sabbath!

In His Service,

Pastor Jeremy