Singing: Psalm 62: 1, 4 Psalm 34: 1, 2 Psalm 118: 1, 5, 6 Hymn 58: 1, 2, 3 Hymn 48: 1, 3, 4 Reading: Colossians 1: 9 – 23 Colossians 2: 1 – 15 Lords Day 26 Sermon: Baptism is a reminder of the forgiveness and renewal that we have in Christ 1. Forgiven in Christ 2. Renewed by the Spirit

False teachers can only look back to humanism for their authority. They corrupt the Word of God and use that as their basis. Gullible people will yield to that corruption. God does not want us to fall for lies. He gave us His Word. We can know the truth and we need to submit to the truth.

I. For Self? II. For Others?

To rescue us from being dead in trespasses, we were buried with Christ in baptism, and raised with him

This sermon examines Genesis 7:10-24 to demonstrate the global scope and theological significance of Noah's flood. The preacher argues that the text describes a universal act of divine judgment and decreation, reversing creation to cleanse the earth of wickedness. Key themes include the magnitude of the waters covering all mountains, the preservation of life in the ark, and the typological connection between the flood and Christian baptism. The message challenges modern geological assumptions by affirming the literal historicity of a worldwide catastrophe as the basis for understanding Earth's history. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to trust Scripture over worldly philosophies regarding origins and judgment.

The sermon examines Jeremiah 25, focusing on the prophetic decree that Judah and all surrounding nations must drink the cup of God's wrath due to persistent idolatry and sin. It highlights the certainty of divine judgment, which begins with God's own people and extends universally to every empire and nation. The preacher contrasts this inevitable destruction with the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who voluntarily drank the cup of suffering on the cross. This act of atonement satisfies divine justice and transforms the cup of wrath into a cup of blessing for believers. Ultimately, the message emphasizes that only through Christ's sacrifice can humanity find peace and reconciliation with God.

The sermon examines Acts chapter eight to illustrate three spiritual conditions through the characters of Philip, the Samaritans, and Simon. Philip serves as a model for believers, demonstrating how to serve faithfully despite persecution by remaining filled with the Holy Spirit and focused on evangelism. The Samaritans represent those who must turn from their own religious systems to believe in Christ for salvation and obedience in baptism. Finally, Simon warns against superficial faith, showing that external profession without genuine repentance leads to a heart motivated by self-interest rather than God.

Achintu Abdu shares his personal testimony of transitioning from a life of crime and drug use to finding faith in Christ. He describes how the love of God, revealed through John 3:16 and the witness of believers, convicted him of his need for a Savior. Upon believing, he abandoned his former lifestyle and sought baptism within the church community. The narrative highlights the transformative power of divine mercy and the supportive role of fellow believers in his spiritual journey. His story serves as an encouragement to others regarding the accessibility of God's grace regardless of past sins.