Making reproducing disciples of Jesus Christ

River Reach News 1/12

Dear River Reach Family,

For who is our hope or joy or crown of exultation? Is it not even you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus at His coming? 20 For you are our glory and joy.” 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20

Though we live in an age of “social” media it is striking how often the focus of our concern is on ourselves.  My life, my schedule, getting through my week, and even my spiritual walk at times can be all that we care about.  Twenty-one of the twenty-six books of the New Testament are actually more letters than they are books.  They were written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit from godly spiritual mentors to different churches or individuals.  Each letter was written by a believer to believers.  The purpose of each letter is to encourage or challenge their recipients in their spiritual walk with the Lord.  As you study these shorter letters you are drawn back to a specific time and location in the early days of the church where believers similar to us faced spiritual challenges just like us.  The solution for their problems did not rely on a change of circumstances but on receiving and living God’s Word.  The Holy Spirit preserved these letters for us so that we too may find the grace of God and encouragement to live for God in our day (2 Timothy 3:16-17).  This Sunday I am excited to begin a new series in the New Testament letter of 1 Thessalonians.  Personal and corporate spiritual growth will take place in our church as we learn and apply these truths to our lives.

Series Title: “One Life to a Life for Life”

Sunday Sermon: “An Introduction to the Bond of Christian Love” – 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

Series Title: “Money: Showing Off God’s Goodness through Stewardship”

Brian will continue the series we began last Sunday in our Adult Sunday Class at 9:25am.  I hope that you will make the effort to join us for this important series.

New Wednesday Evening Bible Study Series

The beginning of the year provides an opportunity for us to dig deep in God’s Word.  On Wednesday evenings we are beginning a Bible Study in 1 Peter: “Triumphing in Trying Times”.

Discipleship Groups Sunday evening at 6:00pm

Men: Read chapter 12 in The Trellis and the Vine:  

This will be our last week in this book study.

Women: Jen will be discussing the book (None Like Him) with you.  This book has been a blessing to her.  She would like to share it with you!  No need to purchase the book.  Just come for a great time of fellowship and spiritual encouragement.

Prayer Requests:

  • The Lord to bless our new studies in God’s Word (SS, SM, Wed)
  • Salvation of friends and family members
  • Gospel opportunities
  • Our missionaries to be encouraged during the Christmas season
  • Our nation and leaders, peace

Upcoming Events:

  • Sunday 1/14 – 9:25 – Sunday Classes (Money Series)
    • 10:30 – Morning Worship (One Life to a Life for Life)
    • 6:00 – Discipleship Groups
  • Wednesday 1/17 – Prayer Service and Bible Study (Triumphing in Trying Times)
  • Sunday 1/14 – 9:25 – Continue Money Stewardship Series in Adult Sunday Class
  • Sunday 1/21 – Afternoon Fellowship and Singspiration
  • Feb. 4-8 – Refresh Conference with Andy Gleiser

Blessed to be your Pastor!
Matthew Rowley

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