The church service started with music and a welcome from the pastor.
The focus of the service was on worshiping God and acknowledging His sovereignty over all nations.
Worship
The congregation sang several songs praising God, including:
“You are the Lord, the famous one, great is your name in all the Earth.”
“Praise the Father, praise the Son, praise the Spirit, three in one.”
Emphasis on God's glory, mercy, and the significance of Jesus' sacrifice.
Prayer
A prayer was offered to thank God for providing a space to meet and worship.
The prayer included a request for God to prepare the hearts of the congregation to receive His word.
Sermon: Trusting in God Over People (Psalm 146)
Key Points
Call to Praise: The Psalmist calls to praise God continually (Psalm 146:1-2).
Warning Against Trusting in Human Beings: Human beings, including influential leaders, cannot save (Psalm 146:3-4).
Blessedness of Trusting in God: True blessedness comes from placing trust in God, who is the maker of heaven and earth and remains faithful forever (Psalm 146:5-6).
God's Compassion: God upholds the oppressed, feeds the hungry, sets prisoners free, and loves the righteous (Psalm 146:7-9).
Call to Live Like Jesus: The congregation is encouraged to show the same compassion Jesus did, particularly to the marginalized.
Application
Reflect on who you trust and rely on in life.
Christians are called to build their lives upon God, not on human beings or material things.
Demonstrate God’s compassion to others, especially those who are different or marginalized.
Missions Update
UK Trip Testimonies
The youth group shared testimonies from their recent trip to the UK and Paris.
Highlights included street evangelism, unity within the group, and significant individual encounters, including one where a young woman accepted Jesus.
The trip fostered a sense of community and demonstrated God's power and joy.
Reality Church London Update
Introduction of Mike, the new lead pastor for Reality Church London.
Mike shared his background and his excitement for serving in London.
Prayer requests for the transition period and unity within the church.
Announcements
Giving: Encouragement to continue worship through giving, with various methods provided (online, app, in-person, mail).
Prayer Groups: Weekly prayer groups encouraged, with an online guide available for structure and scripture references.
Community Groups: Interest meeting for new leaders and hosts for community groups, emphasizing the importance of mid-week gatherings for deeper relationship and study.
Women’s Bible Study: Registration open for a six-week study on the book of Habakkuk, with options for Wednesday night or Thursday morning sessions.
Upcoming Events: Highlight of an event with Justin Brierley on the surprising rebirth of belief in God and his podcast's success.
Closing
Final worship songs and a call to respond through prayer, communion, and praise.
Encouragement for the congregation to live out their faith and praise God in their daily lives.
Conclusion
The service concluded with a benediction and an invitation to greet one another and share what God is doing in their lives.