Encounter Life Church Service Highlights

Sep 12, 2024

Encounter Life Church Service Notes

Welcome and Announcements

  • Warm welcome to all attendees, both in-person and online.
  • Special greetings to newcomers and regular attendees.
  • Agenda: Start with praise and worship, followed by the sermon.

Announcements

  • Partnership with Hillcrest Heights Elementary

    • Support needed for kindergarten classes: school supplies, winter clothing.
    • Donations can be dropped off at 2200 Cber Drive, Hillcrest Heights, MD.
    • Gift cards accepted for purchase of items.
    • For more info, contact Dr. Katherine Graham.

  • Upcoming Events

    • Annual Love Feast: September 29th after church.
    • Baptism Sunday: Every first Sunday. Contact Pastor Dwayne McKinney for details.

  • Technology and Support

    • Download the Encounter Life Church app using the QR code.
    • Couples counseling available at couplescounselingcenter.org.
    • Support for the homeless through Widow’s Pantry; contact Sister Desand Young.

  • Giving Options

    • Text: "Give" to 301-804-2520.
    • Online: encounterlifechurch.net.
    • Mail: 2200 Cber Drive, Temple Hills, MD.

Praise and Worship

  • Songs include "Lord You're Mighty" and "You've Been So Good."
  • Emphasized God's greatness and faithfulness.

Sermon: "God Helps Those Who Help Themselves?"

  • Introduction

    • Common misconceptions about what the Bible says.
    • Series will address idioms and phrases mistakenly attributed to scripture.

  • Key Misconception Addressed

    • "God helps those who help themselves" is NOT in the Bible.
    • Origin: Greek mythology, not Biblical.
    • Biblical truth: God helps those who realize they need His help.

  • Biblical References and Lessons

    • Psalm 121: "My help comes from the Lord."
    • Matthew 6:25-33: Trust in God's provision, like the birds and lilies.
    • Romans 5:6: We were utterly helpless, yet Christ died for us.

  • Story of Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20)

    • Facing large armies; Jehoshaphat’s response was to pray, not panic.
    • Principles for Receiving God's Help:
      • Pray before performing.
      • Proclaim God’s power and past faithfulness.
      • Place trust in God's word.
      • Praise Him in advance of the victory.
      • Stand still and watch the Lord's salvation.

  • Application and Encouragement

    • Depend on God rather than self-sufficiency.
    • Show up, stand firm, and let God work.
    • Trust and act on God's promises.

Closing and Offering

  • Encouragement to pray before acting in personal situations.
  • Reminder of giving options and importance of supporting the church.
  • Call to action: Invite others for National Back to Church Sunday.

Conclusion

  • Affirmation of God's role as a provider and helper.
  • Final prayer for the congregation's needs and a blessed week.

These notes capture the key elements of the service at Encounter Life Church, including the sermon focus on misconceptions about Biblical teachings and practical steps for trusting God in life's challenges.

Full transcript