Already/Not-Yet Communion - Colossians 3:1-5a - 09/13/2026

The sermon emphasizes that true revival must begin within the local church through a honest assessment of spiritual condition and the reestablishment of communion with God. By contrasting King Hezekiah's reforms with his father Ahaz's apostasy, the message highlights the danger of complacency and false worship in an increasingly secular society. The preacher argues that believers cannot rely on external appearances but must actively remove personal and corporate impurities to allow the Holy Spirit to work effectively. This process requires a burden for holiness, shared leadership, and a covenant commitment to return to biblical standards. Ultimately, revival is presented as a necessary response to modern apostasy, starting with individual repentance and collective restoration of worship.

1. A rich provision 2. A gracious invitation

Genesis 19:30 'And Lot went up out of Zoar, and dwelt in the mountain, and his two daughters with him; for he feared to dwell in Zoar: and he dwelt in a cave, he and his two daughters.' The sermon contrasts the spiritual vitality of Abraham with the gradual decline of Lot, illustrating how misplaced priorities lead to disaster. It emphasises that while Lot was righteous, his lack of personal communion with God and reliance on material wealth caused him to drift from faith into sin. The preacher highlights the danger of walking by sight rather than by faith, showing how Lot's choices resulted in the loss of his family and dignity. Through this tragic account, the message serves as a warning against compromising spiritual disciplines for worldly comfort. Ultimately, it calls believers to maintain their focus on Christ and the cross to avoid a similar fate.

Consecutive Reading: 1 Peter 1 Psalm Singing: Psalm 147:1-7, #80 Irish; 84:8-12, #115 St. Columba; 85:8-13, #96 Naomi Sermon Title: Winter is Over Sermon Scripture: Song of Solomon 2:10-13 Sermon Series: Communion September 2026 Pastor: J. Logan Shelton Date: 9-13-2026 Service: Afternoon

The sermon explores the theological foundation of the Sabbath as a day designed for delighting in God through communion with Christ. It identifies two primary reasons for keeping the Sabbath holy: remembering God as Creator and celebrating His work of redemption in Jesus Christ. The preacher argues that the Sabbath serves as a weekly reminder of human dependence on God and the believer's deliverance from sin, countering the world's tendency to despise this commandment. By focusing on these truths, believers find spiritual fortification for the rest of the week and anticipate eternal rest. Ultimately, the day is presented not as a burden but as a joyful opportunity to give thanks for the gospel.

Consecutive Reading: Zechariah 3, Revelation 1 Psalm Singing: Psalm 113, #168 St. Asaph; 40:6-9, #118 St. Flavian; 116:13-19, #21 Artaxerxes; 118:20-29, #45 Crediton; 72:17-19, #56 Effingham Sermon Title: Welcome to the Lord's Table Sermon Scripture: Revelation 1:4-6 Sermon Series: Communion September 2026 Pastor: J. Logan Shelton Date: 9-13-2026 Service: Morning