In Matthew 6:12 (NIV), Jesus teaches us this prayer, emphasising the link between our forgiveness from God and our forgiveness of others. This connection underscores a fundamental truth: forgiveness is not a one-way transaction; it's a reciprocal act that has the power to transform hearts and relationships.

Jesus further emphasises the importance of forgiveness in Matthew 6:14-15 (NIV):

“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Here, Jesus makes it clear that our willingness to forgive others is directly tied to God's forgiveness of our own sins. This dynamic highlights the transformative nature of forgiveness.

Forgiveness has the power to heal deep wounds and mend broken relationships. In Colossians 3:13 (NIV), we're urged to

“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."

This verse encourages us to follow God's example of forgiveness in our interactions with others. When we do so, we allow the transformative power of forgiveness to work in our lives, bringing reconciliation and healing.

Furthermore, forgiveness frees us from the burden of bitterness and resentment. In Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV), it is written:

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Forgiving others liberates us from the destructive weight of negative emotions and enables us to experience personal transformation.

In conclusion, the phrase “forgive our sins as we forgive those who trespass against us" not only teaches us about the transformative power of forgiveness; it also demonstrates the interconnection between God's forgiveness and our willingness to forgive others. When we forgive, we not only experience freedom from bitterness, but we also benefit from the healing and reconciliation of relationships. By modeling forgiveness as Christ forgave us, we allow this transformative power to work in our lives, drawing us closer to God's love and grace.

It's just 6 easy steps!

1. Go to The Desk and purchase a box for $1.00
2. Fill the box with the gifts
3. Label your box
4. Bring the box back by 1st October 2023
5. Make a $12.50 donation for shipping and gospel materials
6. Pray for the child who will receive your box

Bring joy and Jesus to a child's life this Christmas by participating in Operation Christmas Child. Find out more by going to The Desk before or after the Sunday worship service.

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 lie 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 deeply 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 the sacred prayer, unpacking its significance, and uncovering the transformative truths it contains.

Prepare to be inspired by engaging sermons, thought-provoking discussions, and reflective moments of prayer, as we explore the profound implications of each line and learn how to apply its teachings in our daily lives.

Check us out online. We have a great program for you!
2 to 4-year-olds | Naaman | 2 Kings 5:1-14
5 to 12-year-olds |Forgiveness |Colossians 3:13

>>>KIDS CHURCH<<<

Join us as we spend time together in prayer, worship, and fellowship as we seek the face of God for our families, community and nation.

>>>MEN'S PRAYER GROUP<<<

Details:

• Time: 1.30pm – 4.00pm
• Where: 446 Centre Road, Berwick, Vic, 3806
• 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)

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 and now has multiple chapters throughout Europe, New Zealand, and the USA. God’s Squad has continued for over five decades to devote its efforts to those on the fringes of society. It has 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 has been built on a foundation of radical discipleship in Christ and the truth of the Gospel.

The Club continues to exist primarily to minister among motorcycle clubs and associated groups, where it is seen as an accepted and relevant expression of the Christian Church.

So, why wait? Gather your mates and come along for a great evening! We look forward to seeing you there!

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

The Next Steps Lunch is a 3-Sunday Lunch event (Sunday 15th, 22nd, and 29th October 2023) where you will get the opportunity to get connected, learn more about the movement, and discover your potential whilst enjoying a delicious meal.

The lunches are especially relevant to Newcomers but if you’ve been an attendee, a volunteer, or a partner and have not been to a Next Step Lunch before, we also encourage you to register.

The expectation is that people who book will attend all 3 lunches as each lunch has a different focus. And did I mention that it’s free?

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

If you would like to be contacted about being baptised, complete the Expression of Interest form below by clicking “Book Now".

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

We have two discussion rooms:
• one for people who live with a mental health issue/s; and
• one for those who are caring for them.

These Gatherings are facilitated by Christians who wish to walk alongside people in their journey, loving and caring for them by providing a safe place to be heard and share life’s challenges together, offering friendship and hope. In addition, the Gatherings will provide tools to assist people in dealing with life, with specialist speakers addressing relevant topics.

Please know you are not alone.

The Mental Health Support Gatherings are held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month from 7:30pm to 9:30pm.

>>>BOOK NOW<<<

NB: This will be the last Child Dedication Service for 2023.

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