One of the most significant accounts highlighting the connection between the Lord's Prayer and baptism is found in the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 28, verses 18-20. In what is commonly known as the Great Commission, Jesus commands his disciples to baptize believers in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This command is directly related to the idea of hallowing God's name. Baptism, as administered by the authority of the triune God, serves as a declaration that the believer's identity is now intertwined with the sacred name of God.

The Gospel of Mark, too, emphasizes the transformative aspect of baptism. Mark 1:9-11 narrates the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. As Jesus emerges from the waters, the heavens open, and a voice declares,

“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased."

This moment signifies Jesus' own consecration and affirms the sanctity of God's name. In baptism, believers follow Christ's example, undergoing a symbolic death and resurrection, emerging as new creations that seek to hallow God's name through their lives.

The apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans (6:3-4), further elucidates the link between baptism and the transformative power of hallowing God's name. He writes that through baptism, believers are united with Christ in his death and resurrection, thereby walking in the newness of life. This echoes the sentiment of the Lord's Prayer, where “hallowed be thy name" reflects the desire to be set apart and transformed, bearing witness to God's holiness.

Furthermore, the communal dimension of the Lord's Prayer resonates with baptism's significance as a public declaration of faith. Acts 2:41 records the first Christian baptisms after Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost. Those who believed were baptized, signifying their commitment to the community of believers. Just as “hallowed be thy name" is a communal declaration of reverence, baptism is a communal act that unites believers in their dedication to living lives that honour God's name.

In conclusion, the phrase “hallowed be thy name" in the Lord's Prayer holds deep significance in relation to the baptism of believers. Scriptural references, such as the Great Commission, Jesus' baptism, and Paul's teachings, highlight the transformative and communal aspects of both the prayer and the sacrament. Baptism, as a symbolic immersion into the sacred name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit reflects the believer's commitment to hallowing that name through their faith, actions, and belonging to the Christian community. Just as the Lord's Prayer encapsulates the essence of devotion, so does baptism encapsulate the essence of rebirth and dedication to the holiness of God's name.

The Lord’s Prayer is a profound and cherished piece of scripture that holds the key to unlocking a multitude of blessings in our lives. Within its simple yet profound words lies a roadmap to a deeper relationship with God, a source of guidance for navigating life’s challenges, and a pathway to experiencing the true power of prayer.

Join us as we delve deep into the Lord’s Prayer, unpacking its layers of meaning, and discovering the incredible riches it has to offer. Over the course of this enlightening sermon series, we will explore each line of this sacred prayer, unpacking its significance, and uncovering the transformative truths it contains.

Prepare to be inspired as we dive into the very heart of this beloved prayer. Through engaging sermons, thought-provoking discussions, and reflective moments of prayer, we will explore the profound implications of each line and learn how to apply its teachings in our daily lives.

­Our Father in heaven, you are the Creator, King and Redeemer who calls us each by name. Together we are family under you, our perfect Father.

Help us to grow in our reverence and worship of you, and may your name always be kept holy.

May your rule and reign transform us by the power of the gospel, and may we your church extend the rule and reign of Jesus Christ to every place.

May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Lord give us today our earthly and spiritual needs, and increase our hunger and thirst for more of your presence.

As we receive grace and forgiveness from you, may the same grace and forgiveness flow out from us for others.

Lord set our eyes and our hearts on you, and help us to resist our foes until the final victory.

For yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

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2 to 4-year-olds | Land, animals and people | Genesis 1:24–2:3
5 to 12-year-olds | Pure Imagination: The Tabernacle |Exodus 25:8-9; 28:1, 31:1-11; 39:32-43; 40

>>>KIDS CHURCH<<<

We sincerely value your partnership in our vision for BCOC. Your involvement is vital as we enter a new phase in our journey as we give steps closer to becoming a movement transforming the lives of individuals and communities through the power of the Gospel. Join us as we celebrate Him who is the head of our church.

Let us come together in unity, faith, and anticipation for a shared vision, purpose, and celebration. We look forward to seeing you at the Partners and Volunteers Gathering!

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Where individuals spend time in prayer, worship, and fellowship together as men who walk together to seek the face of God. Starts 5.45pm.

>>>MEN'S PRAYER GROUP<<<

ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7.15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8.30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.30pm

>>>CHECK OUT BOYS BRIGADE<<<

Get ready to engage in inspiring discussions and interactive workshops led by renowned speakers and experts in the fields of family, relationships, and personal growth. From “What should fathers do…really…?” to “Healing fatherhood wounds”, we’ll discover the keys to building homes that radiate love, joy, and understanding.

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It is an orientation towards what makes us unique and how we function as a community. You will get to know the leadership and we will talk about how you can partner with us to make our vision a reality.

• Date: Sunday 10th September 2023
• Time: 12.30pm – 2.30pm

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Details:

• Date: Sunday 10th September 2023
• Time: 12.30pm – 2.30pm
• Bring: please bring a plate for everyone to share

>>>SENIORS MINISTRY<<<

There’s no obligation to say anything and there’s nothing you can’t share (seriously). It’s an opportunity to hear from others and contribute your own perspective in an honest, friendly and open environment.

Details

• Date: Wednesday 4th October 2023
• Time: 7.00pm – 9.30pm
• Address: 446 Centre Road, Berwick
• Booking fee: $10 (includes a free introduction night 2 course dinner)

If you have not heard about the God’s Squad Christian Motorcycle Club (GSCMC), it was founded in 1971. In 1972 God’s Squad began in Melbourne under the leadership of John Smith. God’s Squad spread from Australia where it has had multiple chapters throughout Europe into New Zealand, and also the USA. God’s Squad has continued for over five decades to devote its efforts to those on the fringes of society.

The Club continues to primarily exist to minister among motorcycle clubs and associated groups, where it is an accepted and relevant expression of the Christian Church. God’s Squad has also maintained a long commitment to supporting the poor, advocating for the rights of first nation people, and active ministry in prisons, schools, and the public space. All of this is built on a foundation that takes the call of radical discipleship in Christ seriously, which finds its roots in His teaching.

So, why wait? Gather your buddies and join us at our men’s event where you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to see you there!

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NB: This will be the last Child Dedication Service this year.

If you would like to participate, please fill in the Child Dedication application form on the BCOC website.