Welcome to Worship October 25, 2020
In this final week of our sermon series, we take a look at the final Beatitude from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. What Jesus taught often runs counter to the voices around us, to the story that the world tells us is true. But every lesson is abundant with wisdom and practical instruction; “Be-Attitudes” that Jesus wants to use to shape us, to Flip the Script on our lives and show us what true happiness looks like. We worship together united by the Spirit of God present with each of us this day. 
"Blessed Are the Persecuted"
Dr. Jim Baldwin
We live in a nation of religious liberty where we will probably never experience the kind of persecution our brothers and sisters face in other countries.  But there is still a price to pay for following Christ.  Each one of us has to count the cost of being a disciple of Jesus and then decide if we believe He is worth the cost.  Jesus helps us think about that decision when He says, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven."
Family Question
WHAT COURAGEOUS CHOICES CAN YOUR GROWN-UPS BE MAKING RIGHT NOW?

Jesus foreshadowed the problems his followers would face if they lived out this upside-down kingdom where the powerless are blessed. Sometimes when we make courageous choices, we will endure criticism, scrutiny, mockery, and sometimes even retaliation from people who do not desire change. One of the best ways for grown-ups to support children is to bear the heaviest burden of social change. Read more...
AS AN ACT OF WORSHIP WE RESPOND...
Responding Through Reflection
  • When have you experienced “persecution” because of your faith?
  • What is your idea of the Kingdom of heaven?
Responding Through Giving
Trusting in God with all we have, we give to support the work of God's church because we believe in our mission to share God's love with our community and world in the name of Jesus. Give online or by mail. Giving allows us to keep being the church, even in the absence of our physical presence. Mail to: 411 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401. How To Give Online
Respond Through Connecting
Do you have questions about being in a relationship with God? We would love to talk with you and help you begin or deepen your faith journey.
Responding Through Prayer
Oh Lord, Your Son Jesus Christ suffered and died for us.
In His resurrection He restores life and peace in all creation.
Please protect our brothers and sisters around the world who are being persecuted for their faith, especially those who are active in sharing the gospel.
Let your peace reign on those regions where your children are not permitted the freedom to live out their faith safely.
Help us to not take for granted one day the freedom we have to live boldly for you. Amen