Prepper Church: February 18, 2024

Culture Changes -- God Doesn't

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Gathering 

Take time to gather informally and preview the service outline.  If you'd like to participate in communion, please be prepared to do so.  

Service

I.  Opening

Welcome and Introduction:  Welcome, fellow preppers, to our first service in Lent for 2024. As we learn to overcome the challenges of preparing for uncertain times, let us also prepare our hearts for the arrival of the greatest gift—Jesus Christ.

Opening Prayer:   Almighty God, as we gather today to reflect on Your unchanging nature in a world that constantly shifts and changes, we are grateful for the steadfast love and faithfulness You show us. Open our hearts and minds to understand and embrace the comfort and guidance found in Your unchangeable character. Amen..

Scripture:  Psalm 102:25-27 (AMP) - Of old You founded the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You remain; and all of them will wear out like a garment. Like clothing, You will change them, and they will be changed. But You are the same, and Your years will not come to an end.

II.  Worship and Praise

Let's enter into a time of worship, reflecting on the importance of taking action and responding to God’s call.

Video Link:  The Newfangled Four - Hello My Baby... Through the Years - YouTube    

Reflection: he performance of "Hello My Baby... Through the Years" by The Newfangled Four, with its journey through various musical genres, offers a unique and engaging experience. Here are some reflective thoughts for you to consider while enjoying this lively and fun performance:

• Reflection on Change: As you listen to the song evolve through different musical styles, consider how change is a constant in both culture and personal life. What does this teach us about adapting to change while holding onto our core values and beliefs?
• The Unchanging Nature of God: Amidst the shifting genres, the melody and lyrics remain recognizable. How does this parallel our understanding of God's unchanging nature in the midst of our ever-changing world?
• The Diversity of Expression: Each genre brings a unique flavor and perspective to the same song. Reflect on how the diverse ways we worship and express our faith can enrich our collective experience of God, who embraces us all in our variety.
• Joy in the Journey: The performance is fun and engaging, reminding us of the joy to be found in life's journey and in the expression of our faith. How can we incorporate more joy and creativity into our daily walk with God?
• Unity Across Differences: Despite the drastic changes in musical style, the quartet remains unified in their performance. How can we, as a church community, model this unity in diversity, celebrating our differences while coming together in worship and fellowship?
• The Timelessness of Message: Consider how, no matter the genre, the song's essence is preserved. What does this say about the timeless message of the Gospel and its relevance across all cultures and times?

This performance, with its blend of humor, talent, and creativity, can serve as a metaphor for the journey of faith, encouraging the congregation to reflect on the constancy of God's love, the beauty of diversity in expression, and the joy of unity within the community.

III. Communion

Communion symbolizes Jesus' sacrifice, offering forgiveness and eternal life to those who believe. It's for those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior. Communion is for those who have made the decision to accept Jesus as the forgiver of their sins and the leader of their lives.  There is no pressure from us and the decision is yours alone.  If you have not taken this step, we ask that you do not participate in this portion of the service and want you to rest assured that no one will think less of you in any way.  You are welcome to observe and be present.

For those that have made that choice, we invite you to take communion as we guide you through preparation, prayer, and reflection.

We will distribute and share the bread and cup at this time (or as is suitable for your gathering).

The account of what we have come to call The Last Supper is told in two places in the Bible:

• Matthew 26:26 (AMP): Now as they were eating Jesus took bread, and after blessing it, He broke the bread and gave it to the disciples, and said, 'Take, eat; this is My body.' 
• Mark 14:22 (AMP): While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when He had blessed it, He broke it and gave it to them, and said, 'Take it. This is My body.' 

For those that participate in Communion, please partake of the bread now.

The account of The Last Supper continues in both records:

• Matthew 26:27-28 (AMP):  And when He had taken a cup and given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you; for this is My blood of the [new and better] covenant, which is being poured out for many [as a substitutionary atonement] for the forgiveness of sins.'
• Mark 14:23-24 (AMP):  And when He had taken a cup [of wine] and given thanks, He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. And He said to them, 'This is My blood of the [new and better] covenant, which [ratifies the agreement and] is being poured out for many.'

For those that participate in Communion, please partake of the cup now.

Prayer:  Lord, we thank you for the New Covenant, for the Blood of Christ, for the forgiveness of sins, and the blessings of The Holy Spirit in our lives.

IV:  Culture Changes, God Doesn't

As we gather here in the heart of nature, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of God’s creation, we find ourselves in a world that is constantly changing. Look around you — the seasons change, the river flows, and even the landscape overturns upon itself over time. Yet, amidst all this change, there is one constant: God. Today, we find the comforting assurance found in Hebrews 13:8 and Malachi 3:6, reminding us that "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever," and "I am the Lord, I do not change."

The Nature of Change

Change is a part of life. It’s in the natural world around us, in the societal shifts we witness, and in our personal lives as we grow and learn. From the technology we use to the ways we communicate, the world today would be unrecognizable to someone from a century ago. And yet, this change, while it can signify progress and growth, also brings with it uncertainty and challenges. How do we navigate a world that never stays the same?

We grow. We learn.  We practice, drill, and rehearse our skills.  We get better at what we do.  We improve and season ourselves.

We also regress. We forget. Our skills, once sharp and readily accessible, can fade with time. Tasks that were once easy gradually become difficult. We weaken and slow ourselves, caught in the inevitable flow of time. In other words—we age.

Change is what we do.  We are human.

The Constancy of God

God doesn't change.  We change all the time, God never changes.

The world is teeming with change but our faith anchors us to an unchanging God. "For I am the Lord, I do not change," says Malachi 3:6. This isn’t just a statement of God’s identity; it’s a promise of His steadfastness in our lives. When we feel overwhelmed by the waves of change, we can find solace in the knowledge that God remains the same — a solid rock on which we can stand. Hebrews 13:8 reassures us that Jesus Christ is constant, His love for us, His grace towards us, and His presence with us are unchanging

In every season of life, in every twist and turn, He is there, unmovable and eternal.

Living in the Balance

So, how do we live in the balance between a changing world and an unchanging God? First, by holding fast to the truths of God’s word, letting them guide us through the shifting sands of culture and society. Secondly, by embracing change as an opportunity for growth, always grounded in the principles of God’s kingdom. And finally, by being agents of God’s unchanging love in a changing world, showing others the steadfast hope we have in Christ.

We must indeed embrace change, not as a force that sweeps us along without purpose, but as a catalyst for growth and transformation. For we are profoundly changed by God! The Holy Spirit dwelling within us initiates this change, crafting us into new creations, reflecting the image and love of Jesus. Through the sacrifice of Jesus of Nazareth, God reached into our world, becoming one of us, to enable this divine change. His coming was a mission of transformation—inviting us into a life that mirrors His love, His grace, and His truth.

Let us then be open to the changes God orchestrates in our lives, welcoming His refining work in our hearts and minds. Let's change, and change for the better, embodying the virtues of the Kingdom of Heaven in all that we do. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of our world, let our lives reflect the unchanging goodness of God, drawing others to the eternal hope and unfailing love found in Christ.

Conclusion

The next time we see the stars, let them remind us of the Creator who set them in place — the God who changes not. May this assurance fill us with peace and courage as we navigate the changes in our lives. Let us hold fast to Him, drawing strength from His eternal constancy to face the changes in our lives with courage and grace. And as we do, may we reflect His unchanging love and faithfulness to the world around us.

V:  Offering

As we continue in our worship, we have the opportunity to participate in the act of giving. The Bible reminds us in 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV), "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

Let's bow our heads in prayer as we prepare our hearts for this act of giving. Heavenly Father, we thank You for the blessings You have bestowed upon us. As we bring our offerings before You today, we do so with hearts full of gratitude. May these gifts be used for the furthering of Your Kingdom and the spreading of Your love. Bless each giver abundantly, and may our cheerful giving be a reflection of Your generosity toward us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

As we collect the offering, we do want to remind everyone that this part of the service is an opportunity to give but is in no way considered a requirement.  We have the special opportunity here at Prepper Church to give all of the offering to a good cause that we choose.

Thank you for your generous hearts and faithful giving. Your contributions play a vital role in supporting the causes that we support. May God bless you abundantly as you continue to be cheerful givers. Amen.

VI:  Closing

Closing Prayer:  Heavenly Father, in a world that never stops changing, we are profoundly grateful for Your eternal constancy. As we depart from this place, help us to carry the peace that comes from knowing You are always the same—yesterday, today, and forever. Guide us through the changes in our lives, and let Your unchanging love be our compass. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Remarks:  Thank you for joining in this moment of reflection and worship. As we continue our adventures, both in the woods and in the wider world beyond, let's remember the steadfast love of our unchanging God. May this assurance inspire us to live boldly and lovingly, embracing the journey ahead with faith. Go in peace, and let the unchanging nature of God be your sure foundation in every change you face.

Local Group Discussion and Fellowship

Feel free to continue the celebration in your local groups, discussing the message, sharing your reflections, and enjoying fellowship.  Here are some thought-provoking discussion prompts based on "Culture Changes, God Doesn't":

• Personal Transformation: Reflect on a significant change you've experienced in your own life. How did you see God working through that change to grow or transform you? Discuss the ways the Holy Spirit has changed you since you began your walk with Christ.
• Embracing Change with Faith: Share a time when a change in society or your personal life challenged your faith. How did holding onto the unchanging nature of God help you navigate that period? What Scripture gave you the most comfort or guidance during this time?
• Agents of Change: Considering that we are called to be agents of God’s unchanging love in a changing world, what are some practical ways we can show God's love to those who are struggling with change? How can we use our own experiences of transformation to help others?
• The Role of the Church in a Changing World: How can the church remain relevant and impactful in a rapidly changing society without compromising the eternal truths of God's Word? Discuss the balance between adapting to meet people where they are and holding fast to the unchanging message of the Gospel.
• Learning from Cultural Changes: What is one positive change in culture or society that has impacted your spiritual life or the church positively? How can we as a church community continue to learn from and respond to cultural changes in ways that honor God?
• Reflecting God's Unchangeability: In what ways can we individually and collectively reflect God's unchanging nature in our relationships, work, and community engagement? Share ideas on how to consistently demonstrate God's love, grace, and truth in a world that is always changing.

These discussion points aim to facilitate meaningful conversations that encourage participants to reflect on their personal experiences of change, the role of faith in navigating change, and the ways in which they can embody and share God's unchanging love with the world around them.