Monday, Jan. 25th, 2010

Bible Thoughts – I Timothy 4:11-16

Recently, on Wednesday evenings, the adult class at Eastside has been walkthrough through the book of I Timothy. The Apostle Paul is nearing the last few years of his life; and he writes this letter to a young preacher in Ephesus about how to promote the Gospel and bring Christ honor in his work. As a young preacher, I draw invaluable aid from both the letters Paul wrote to his “beloved son.” However, the admonitions to Timothy are not limited to preachers and their work. The principles in these letters will give direction to men and women, young and old(er), both new and seasoned Christians. To illustrate that, I would like for all to consider the 6 instructions of our principle text. These ought to serve as a challenge to everyone and a template for service:

“Prescribe and teach these things. Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. Until I come, give attention to the reading, to exhortation and teaching. Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying of hands and by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you” (I Ti. 4:11-16).

1) “Prescribe and teach these things” – Paul is referring to the instruction in the letter, and specifically the need to refute false doctrine, as mention in the preceding verses. The message is clear: stand up for and share with others what you know to be true! All of us know things about God and His plan for us… and all of us have the opportunity to share that with someone… let’s embrace those chances.

2) “Let no one look down on your youthfulness” – Certainly as a young preacher, older folks may not have given his words the credibility they deserved. And people of all ages may go through this with reference to folks older than they are. But Paul didn’t want Timothy to just let it happen. Instead, in speech, conduct, attitude and purity, be an example of strength and dignity to others; and they will respect you. Let us all realize that the power of our teaching is directly connected to the purity of our living.

3) “Give attention to the reading” – Zeal without knowledge is without use. And none can teach, encourage, exhort or direct without the knowledge of the Truth. So, Paul reminds Timothy to keep reading the Scripture! Publically, privately, daily… give the Word the attention it deserves. What a great reminder for us. Don’t rest on what you’ve learned or used to know… keep reading.

4) “Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you” – Timothy’s situation was unique from ours. He had miraculous gifts from the Holy Spirit, given to him through the laying on of Paul’s hands. But he had to be reminded not to let those gifts die away or be suppressed by timidity. What a great thought for us. God has given you gifts… not miraculous, but still powerful. Abilities, understanding, opportunities to do the work He has created you to accomplish. Do neglect the gifts He’s given you.

5) “Take pains with these things” – One thing is for sure, commitment takes discipline, sacrifice and “pains” associated with great effort. Timothy had to be “absorbed” in the work of the Kingdom. And I think all of God’s people ought to look at what they are doing for the cause of Christ, and decide if they are “taking pains” or “taking it easy.” Absorbed in responsibility, or absolved of it.

6) “Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching” – Timothy had to constantly be careful about how he behaved and what he taught. The text tells us why: “for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.” Doesn’t that sound awesome? Helping yourself and others be saved from their sins! That is great motivation to persevere, and give daily attention to Christian work!

Kris Emerson

Monday, Jan. 25th, 2010

News and Notes: Monday, January 25^th

GOSPEL MEETING: Our meeting with Tony Mauck is just a 3 weeks away!

February 14^th-18^th… Monday through Thursday… Flyers will be available soon!

News Among Members:

Dale Mayfield will be having surgery on Tuesday at Methodist Downtown.

Linda Bockmiller is definitely feeling stronger after surgery recently. She will begin chemo treatment in a couple weeks. It was good to see her husband Rick and son Jeff with us last night! 281-474-0561

Renate Turner is in San Jac… room 227. She is suffering pain from a rib injury as well as Shingles. The doctors have no time table yet for her release.

Derek Simmon’s father remains in a hospital in Alabama, but the blood clot in his lung that has kept him there is dissolving and he may go home in a few days.

Mary Griffin will continue to go to M.D. Anderson Monday through Friday until February 11^th. She tries her hardest to be with us at worship, but has been quite sick from the treatments lately.

Sharon Peach is continually in our prayers and she slowly but surely is gaining strength.

Elma Chilson was able to worship with us Sunday morning! That is incredibly encouraging. She is still having difficulties with her other knee and will have surgery in a couple months.

Carlton Kuenstler was sick with flu-like symptoms yesterday. His good wife stayed home to care for him.

Also, Brenda Fannett has been very sick in recent days and we pray for her full recovery soon.

2 of our members have moved away: Todd Wright (to Dallas area) and April Potts (Spring area)

Special Service NOTE: Wednesday night Invitation assignments:

Jan. 27^th – Mike Smith Feb. 3^rd – Brian Broussard Feb. 10^th – Ken Prideon

Group Meetings: (remaining meetings for January)

Phillip Stover’s Group: TONIGHT, Jan. 25^th, Danny Davenport’s house, 7 pm

Mike Pilkinton’s Group: Tue. Jan. 26^th, Bill Murff’s house, 7 pm

Mobile Website Now Up

Gladys Kelly registered and setup a website for mobile phone users. Just go to http://www.eastsidebaytown.mobi to see our website formatted for a small screen device like a phone. The site makes things easier to read by using a larger font and putting all the different sections in a row.

It’s a little hard to explain but suffice it to say that it formats the website for smaller screens. You will not be able to check the Member Directory on the .mobi site but you can read everything else easier. Also, the .mobi site puts a link to the building phone number and a link to the map right at the top of the screen so you can quickly call or get directions without a lot of fuss. So check it out when you’re out and about and need to check something on the website.

Gospel Meeting Times & Topics Feb. 14th – 18th

February 14th-18th

Sunday: 9:30a.m./10:25a.m./6:00p.m.

Monday-Thursday: 7:00p.m.

Wed. Class: 10:00a.m.

Tony Mauck will be preaching for us. He served as preacher here at Eastside for 12 years, from 1994 to 2006. He recently moved back to Tomball, TX from Auburn, AL and we are thankful to have him back in our area. While meeting titles are subject to change, here are the study topics he will share this week:

Sunday: False Trust / Great Invitation / It’s All About the Heart

Monday – Thursday: Making of a Good Pharisee / Neat But Negative / Detours on the Road to Glory / Jesus: The Conquering King

Wed. a.m. – Blessed Assurance

Monday, Jan. 18th, 2010

News and Notes: Monday, January 18^th

GOSPEL MEETING: Our meeting with Tony Mauck is just a few weeks away! Let’s pull out our February calendars now and circle Sunday through Thursday, Feb. 14^th-18^th!We’ll meet at regular worship times on Sun and Wednesday, but also Mon-Thu at 7pm. And we will have our Wednesday morning Bible class at 10 a.m.

News Among Members:

Linda Bockmiller is now home and is doing well. Her surgery went as well as could be expected and she will soon undergo Chemotherapy treatment. Their home number: 281-474-0561

Renate Turner is at home and in a lot of pain due to a serious case of shingles! Our prayers are with her.

Denise Gerza’s father, Louis Ramsey, will have a procedure for his heart tomorrow morning at 8:30a.m. at the San Jac. Methodist hospital in Baytown.

Derek Simmon’s father is recovering after multi-bypass surgery last week. He hopes to be moved out of ICU today. Derek has been with his father in Alabama and plans to return home today if all progresses well.

Scott Alford is recovering from his recent accident. His hand was all wrapped up yesterday, but he was with us in worship and we are thankful he felt well enough for that.

Andrew Dahlquist sister passed away yesterday. Funeral arrangements have not been set, but I will send out that information as it becomes available.

Friend of Jennifer Stover, Brandon Garcia, is suffering from cancer at this time and has let his struggles hurt his relationship with God. Jennifer is going to get us some contact info for him, but as of now he needs prayers.

Mary Griffin is going to M.D. Anderson daily for cancer treatment and Kenneth and Patsy Miller have been driving her. If you are available to step in for the Millers for a day, please contact them. The bonus? A good morning with a wonderful Christian lady… we are all praying for you Mary!

Denise Hall is a super proud new grandmother. Her son, Matt and his wife, have two new baby boys: Spencer Matt and Shepherd Mark… Everyone is doing well. Oh, and see Denise for pics!

Sharon Peach remains confined to home. We are looking forward to seeing her smile at worship soon.

Elma Chilson mentioned this morning that her surgically repaired knee is doing well, but now the other knee is hurting. She is still using a walker. She will likely have surgery on the other in March. On a related note, Charles Chilson has been working a lot and unable to worship, a word of encouragement might go along way for him. And… that means Elma doesn’t have a ride to worship, so if you live South of the bridge, you may give her a call and see if she can get out soon. Elma: 713-478-6308 Charles: 713-294-4440

Special Service NOTE: Wednesday night Invitation assignments:

Jan. 20^th – Joe Scarborough Jan. 27^th – Mike Smith Feb. 3^rd – Brian Broussard

Group Meetings: (January)

Scarborough Group: TONIGHT, Jan. 18^th, Melissa McDonald’s house, 7 pm

Scott Alford’s Group: Tue. Jan. 19^th, Jerry Franklin’s house, 6:30 pm

Michael Ferguson’s Group: Thu. Jan. 21^st, Emerson’s home, 7 pm

Phillip Stover’s Group: Mon. Jan. 25^th, Danny Davenport’s house, 7 pm

Mike Pilkinton’s Group: Tue. Jan. 26^th, Bill Murff’s house, 7 pm

Monday, Jan. 18th, 2010

Bible Thoughts – A Visit To Texas City

As our members are aware, last night David Osteen came to Eastside and preached for us. In exchange, Randy Hogue and I drove down to Texas City… Randy led songs and I preached. In a time when so much emphasis is put on the size of a congregation or the influence of their finances, I want to share with you the influence of a small group of folks holding up the Truth in the community of Texas City.

The New Testament, with no reference to size, shows us identifying factors of a faithful local church: Jerusalem: “they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” Acts 2:42. Thessalonica: “constantly bearing in mind your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father” (I Th. 1:3). Philippi: “standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel” (1:27).

When Randy and I got to the church building last night, within minutes we were surrounded by 11 folks who were cordial, kind, inquisitive, and all wearing big smiles. They were happy to see us…and… you could tell they were happy to see one another. They take great encouragement in their common fellowship in Christ.

And although small in number, they do not take worship lightly. The men were dressed with their best (even on a Sunday night). The ladies were all adorned in modest apparel. The service was organized precisely, and everyone gave the utmost focus throughout the evening. Randy was surprised: he chose songs almost everyone knows, in hopes the singing would go well. He heard everyone singing, and even breaking up into all 4 parts. Randy and I agree: it was beautiful. As I got up to preach, undivided attention was given and Bibles were opened… rustling pages of the Bible while preaching is a wonderful sound, regardless of number.

They teach the Truth, demand Truth, and stand on the Truth… and it was good for us to be with them. I remain convinced we were given more encouragement than we gave. I am thankful for the evening. Yes, I missed home folks. And sure there are advantages to larger congregations… but the Truth is being supported with unity, love and devotion in Texas City, TX… and if you ever get the chance, go see for yourself.

kris

Monday, January 11th, 2010

Bible Thoughts – “If I only touch His garment, I will get well”

Do you remember who said our title phrase? Was it not a humble woman in a desperate situation who had faith to believe that Jesus could make her well? Her story is included in three of the gospels. Here is Matthew’s account: “And a woman who had been suffering from a hemorrhage for twelve years, came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His cloak; for she was saying to herself, ‘If I only touch His garment, I will get well.’ But Jesus turning and seeing her said, ‘Daughter, take courage; your faith has made you well.’ At once the woman was made well” (Matt. 9:20-22) The literal translation of her words, “I will get well” is simply: “I will be saved.” She reached out believing that Jesus was the only One who could heal her.

I read this story this morning in connection with our study yesterday about the leper that Jesus healed. He was desperate, with nowhere to turn, so he humbly came to Jesus in faith. In our story today, it seems clear that her condition was beyond treatment, and that she too was in great desperation. Jesus had a large crowd following Him as he was walking to Jairus’ house to heal his daughter. Mark’s account tells us that the crowd was pressed in upon Jesus, and in fact many folks were touching Him. But when she touched Him, power came out of Him and to her. He said, “Who touched My garments?” Then Mark 5:33 records the response of the woman: “But the woman fearing and trembling, aware of what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth.” Jesus acknowledged her faith and sent her away in peace.

What do events like these mean to you? How do they help you build a stronger faith in and love for Jesus? Here are a few things that occur to me. First, I can find no relief unless it is found in Jesus. He alone has the power to forgive sin and deliver peace. Second, nothing can get in the way if I believe enough. No obstacles, no crowds can stop my hand from stretching to Him if I believe He can “save me.” Third, Jesus will never be too occupied or busy to stop and acknowledge faith. He sees our struggles and burdens, and they are plentiful on earth. But He will see even one small hand in the crowd who appeals to Him for help. Fourth, power is transferred from Jesus to the faithful. For the woman, it was healing… for us, the gift of forgiveness, redemption and hope in the kingdom. Finally… FAITH. He said, “your faith has made you well.” The only thing that can keep me from receiving aid from Christ, and living in peace is my own doubt. So I am committed to reading, praying, worshipping and fellowship to keep my faith strong and increasing!

kris

Monday, January 11th, 2010

News and Notes:   Monday, January 11^th

GOSPEL MEETING: Our meeting with Tony Mauck is just a few weeks away!

Let’s pull out our February calendars now and circle Sunday through Thursday, Feb. 14^th-18^th!

We’ll meet at regular worship times on Sun and Wednesday, but also Mon-Thu at 7pm.

And we will have our Wednesday morning Bible class at 10 a.m.

News Among Members:

Linda Bockmiller will be undergoing surgery on a brain tumor tomorrow morning at M.D. Anderson.  The surgery will begin early and extend throughout the day.  If you are planning to go be with the family, maybe we can spread it out so that someone will be there throughout the day.  I am planning on visiting Scott Alford at 10a.m. and then sitting with the Bockmiller family from 11a.m. to around 1 or 2.

Scott Alford had surgery this morning on his thumb and the doctors say it went well.  He will be kept overnight at Hermann Memorial downtown, and is hopeful to be released tomorrow.

Andrew Dahlquist was able to be at worship with us yesterday, but is still feeling effects from his heart condition.  Recovery has been very slow and we pray for daily progress.

Allison and Darrin Ankrom welcomed a new baby boy on Saturday… Cole, 5lb 9oz.   All are doing well!

Friend of Jennifer Stover, Brandon Garcia, is suffering from cancer at this time and has let his struggles hurt his relationship with God.  Jennifer is going to get us some contact info for him, but as of now he needs prayers.

Mary Griffin was very weak yesterday due to cancer treatments and unable to be with us at worship.

Sharon Peach remains confined to home.  We are looking forward to seeing her smile at worship soon.

Elma Chilson remains mostly confined to home as she rehabs after knee surgery.

Special Service NOTE: Wednesday night Invitation assignments:

Jan. 13^th –  David Gerza              Jan. 20^th – Joe Scarborough            Jan. 27^th – Mike Smith

Group Meetings:  (January)

Scarborough Group:              Mon. Jan. 18^th, Melissa McDonald’s house, 7 pm

Scott Alford’s Group:            Tue. Jan. 19^th, Jerry Franklin’s house, 6:30 pm

Phillip Stover’s Group:            Mon. Jan. 25^th, Danny Davenport’s house, 7 pm

Gospel Meeting with Tony Mauck February 14th – 18th

Eastside Church of Christ

Gospel Meeting

Feb. 14th – 18th

w/ Tony Mauck

Sunday 9:30 a.m./10:25 a.m./6:00 p.m.

Mon-Thu – 7:00 p.m.

Wed Morning – 10:00 a.m.

New Group Lists for January 2010

Click on the group leader for a list of members in their group.

Scott Alford’s Group

Mike Pilkinton’s Group

Phillip Stover’s Group

Joe Scarborough’s Group

Mike Ferguson’s Group

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