Prayer and His Kingdom
Friday 1st September 2023
The phrase “Thy Kingdom Come" is a pivotal part of the Lord's Prayer, a timeless and profound supplication that encapsulates the core principles of Christian faith. This six-word plea holds within it a profound depth of meaning, calling believers to be agents of God's kingdom on earth. As we pray for the kingdom of God to come, we inherently acknowledge our responsibility to embody His presence in every place we tread.
The Lord's Prayer, found in Matthew 6:9-13 and Luke 11:2-4, serves as a blueprint for how believers should approach God in prayer. “Thy Kingdom Come," the second petition of this prayer, has a significant spiritual and practical implication. It recognizes God as the sovereign ruler whose reign extends beyond the earthly realm. In praying for His kingdom to come, we invite His divine authority to permeate our lives and the world around us.
The notion of “Thy Kingdom Come" aligns with various scriptural references that highlight the concept of God's kingdom being established on earth:
1. Matthew 6:33 (NIV): “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This verse reminds us of the importance of prioritizing God's kingdom above all else. Our pursuit of God's righteousness and His reign in our hearts should be paramount.
2. Matthew 10:7 (NIV): “As you go, proclaim this message: 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.'" As believers, we are called to proclaim the message of God's kingdom being near. Through our actions, words, and deeds, we can bring the reality of His kingdom closer to those around us.
3. Romans 14:17 (NIV): “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit." This verse emphasizes that the kingdom of God is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy through the Holy Spirit. When we live according to the Spirit, we contribute to the establishment of His kingdom on earth.
4. 1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV): “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power." Our role in bringing God's kingdom is not confined to mere words; it involves manifesting His power through acts of love, compassion, and service as His Spirit empowers us
In essence, “Thy Kingdom Come" is a declaration of our desire to align our lives with God's purposes and to be instruments of His presence in every corner of the world. It's an acknowledgment that God's sovereignty extends beyond the heavens and reaches into the daily fabric of our lives. As believers, we are called not just to passively await the fulfilment of God's kingdom, but to actively participate in its realization by radiating His truth in love.
In conclusion, the phrase “Thy Kingdom Come" in the Lord's Prayer serves as a rallying cry for believers to embrace their role as carriers of God's presence, spreading His kingdom values wherever they go. By seeking His righteousness, proclaiming His message, embodying His peace and joy, and manifesting His power through compassionate action, believers fulfil their part in bringing God's kingdom closer to reality on earth. As we pray for His kingdom to come, let us also strive to be vessels through which His kingdom is made manifest in the lives of those we touch.
Operation Christmas Child | September Blitz
Would you like to bring joy to young people? Would you like to bring the gospel of Jesus to children? Would you like to transform a child's life in a third-world country? You have the opportunity to do this by taking part in Operation Christmas Child.
And you can do it in 6 easy steps!
- Go to The Desk and purchase a box for $1.00
- Fill the box with the gifts
- Label your box
- Bring the box back by 1st October 2023
- Make a $12.50 donation for shipping and gospel materials
- 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 and after the Sunday worship service.
Father's Day | Mirror Photo Booth
To celebrate Father's Day, we have a mirror photo booth set up for all the dads and special father figures. The mirror photo booth will be available from 9 am to 1 pm Sunday. Grab your family or friends and take some fantastic family memories!
Fuse Youth | Friday 1st September
This week is our very first FUSE UNITED! We have guest speaker Chester coming to share plus worship and games in the auditorium. It’s going to be an epic night! See you there! 7-9.30pm, $5.
>>>FUSE YOUTH<<<
Sunday Service | Father’s Day – Eddy Leo
Introducing Pastor Eddy Leo! Join us for an inspiring congregation as Pastor Eddy brings his dynamic wisdom and unwavering faith to BCOC. With a profound journey marked by compassion and leadership, he is a spiritual father to countless lives through his impactful sermons, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual growth.
His dedication to community outreach has created positive change, fostering hope and healing. As an accomplished author and speaker, Pastor Eddy’s profound insights have guided individuals toward purpose and fulfillment. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience his transformative message. Join us and be part of a remarkable spiritual gathering on Sunday 3rd September at 10 am.
Kids Church | Sunday 3rd September
This week at Kids Church we have a fantastic program organised.
2 to 4-year-olds | In the Garden | Genesis 1:31, 2:8–3:24
5 to 12-year-olds | Two People Are Better than One | Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
>>>KIDS CHURCH<<<
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 3rd September
The Men’s Prayer Group is a group of men who meet to pray together. The group meets at the church every Sunday evening.
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<<<
Boys Brigade | Monday 4th September
Be part of the action Monday night. For over 20 years the Boys Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys.
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<<<
Exploring Partnership Meeting | Sunday 10th September
You may have been attending our events or even become part of a close-knit group of people in our community. We would love for you to consider taking up a partnership with us in fulfilling God’s call on our movement. Exploring Partnership is an important step in discovering how you can fit into Berwick Church of Christ.
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
>>>BOOK NOW<<<
Seniors Ministry | Wednesday 13th September
Ps Ian Edwards & Ps Gary Lewis – Let’s join together in holy worship of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Details:
- Date: Sunday 10th September 2023
- Time: 12.30pm – 2.30pm
- Bring: please bring a plate for everyone to share
>>>SENIORS MINISTRY<<<
Alpha Course | Wednesday 4th October
Is there more to life than this? Come and find out at Alpha! Alpha is a series of interactive sessions that create a safe and honest space, where people can explore life, faith and meaning. Enjoy a meal with others, watch a video and have an open discussion and conversation in a friendly and non-judgemental environment.
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)
Men’s Event – God’s Squad | Sunday 8th October
Are you ready to have an unforgettable night with other like-minded men? Then mark your calendars for the upcoming men’s event that we’re hosting! This event is designed to provide a fun and engaging atmosphere for men to connect, share stories, and make new friends. There will be plenty of time to catch up over a BBQ and we’ve also lined up an amazing speaker who will share about the God’s Squad history and vision.
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!
>>>BOOK NOW<<<
Child Dedication Q&A | Sunday 29th October
Our next Child Dedication Service is on 12th November, 2023. In preparation for the Child dedications, there is a Parent Briefing Meeting on Sunday 29th October @ 12pm in Room 5 FLC.
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.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor