Are You Lukewarm? Revelation 3 Devotion Follow-UP

Greetings!

I hope you are having a great Christmas season!  

On Sunday, I told you about a devotional I would send you related to our topic on Sunday from Revelation Chapter 3.   Here's the passage we studied:

"To the angel of the church in Laodicea write:  These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God's creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!  So, because you are lukewarm-neither hot nor cold-I am about to spit you out of my mouth.  You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see.

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.   Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.  To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.   Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches."

This devotional (link below) is part of a small group curriculum called "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan.  It contains a list of 18 different descriptions of "Lukewarm People" with a scriptural reference for us on each one.   Since the book of Revelation begins with Jesus' concern for His church, I thought it would be good for us to be challenged to respond during these next few weeks before we continue with the book.

So, for the next 18 days, just take one of these thoughts and scripture references each day and have a devotion and prayer about it.  Ask God to examine your heart and to draw you closer to Him.  No doubt, this will be challenging for us all, but following Jesus is the most serious part of our life, so its worth it.  Keep in mind, we all struggle, but God's grace through Christ not only brings you forgiveness, but also spiritual growth.

As we consider all there is to consider this Christmas, remember our little Advent Conspiracy slogan - Spend Less, Give More, Worship Fully.  More about that on Sunday.  See you then.

Blessings,

Pastor Scott

Click here for the "Lukewarm People" PDF


Want to use Crazy Love in your small group?  Here's a link to the book - we have the DVD at church in the Resource room.

Crazy Love

Need to get caught up on Revelation sermons?

Click here to subscribe to our sermon podcasts.

Click here to download or stream the sermons online.

Oikos Christmas Party is THIS SUNDAY - Michael Jr.

I am so excited about this year's Oikos Christmas Party!  You know why?  Because I get to spend time with some people that I've been praying for all year:  your oikos and mine!  Your oikos is our primary missional group, and this is one of the easiest opportunities to build your relationship with the people that God has purposefully and providentially placed in your life.

This year, we are pleased to welcome comedian Michael Jr.  Michael is a clean comedian with a solid Christian testimony.  He has been on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno as well as many other television and other venues.  He will not only be making us laugh, but he will also be showing us the way he uses his comedy to minister to the broken in prisons, homeless shelters, homes for abused women and kids, and elsewhere.  We'll laugh a lot - and maybe cry a little too.

Here's a promo video - more information below...



We call this event the "Oikos Christmas Party" because it is a party designed for your oikos - it's for them to have a good time with you, building a relationship that is necessary for you to make disciples.  By getting to know them better, you'll be more ready to discover and meet needs they have; an opportunity to show them the love of Christ.  You will also be a person they know who knows Jesus.  As Peter reminds us, we must be prepared to give a reason for the hope we have in Christ.  (1 Peter 3:15) 

Please be in prayer for them now.  If you haven't already, make a list of those people in your oikos, the people you interact with on a regular basis, and pray for them every day.  Ask God for the opportunity to invite them and that God would be moving in your relationship with each other.

Keep in mind that there are further opportunities for you and your oikos.  Our Christmas Eve Service is on December 24th.  Also, we'll be starting "Financial Peace University" with Dave Ramsey in January.  And also in January, our "Starting Point" class will begin again.  This class is for anyone who is a new believer, seeker, or otherwise interested in the faith.  We'll be promoting these things at the Oikos Party.

Tickets are available now for $10, but if cost is a problem we have quite a few complementary tickets.  We want you to be able to invite your oikos, so if you need a comp ticket, please contact the office ASAP at info@fbcsd.com.   I recommend that you purchase them for your oikos and give them as a gift.  Think of it as an investment in your relationship with them.  We do want everyone in your oikos to be able to go, so if you need to buy more tickets than you can afford, please let us know on Sunday at the Connection Table, we will have a few comp tickets for your oikos.  Also, if you want to buy extra tickets for other people's oikos becuase you can easily afford it, please do this at the Connection Table as well on Sunday.

WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! - Sign up to help THIS Sunday or send an email to info@fbcsd.com letting him know what you will do:

• We need people to make Christmas goodies and hors d'œuvres.  Baked goods and finger foods are perfect!
• Also, if you can make Apple Cider, that has been a huge hit every year.  Pots can be set up in the church kitchen if necessary.
• Set up and tear down teams

This is a great opportunity for you to get to know your oikos better.  I encourage you to ride together and make plans to get to know each other further.

Looking forward to seeing you - and your oikos!

Blessings,

Pastor Scott

Baptism Testimony Video from September 19, 2010

[Our next baptisms are scheduled for Sunday, October 24, 2010.  Contact Pastor Scott if you have questions or would like to be baptized - pastorscott@fbcsd.com.]

We are so excited to see what God is doing in Ashley's life!  See her testimony and baptism in the video below.



I should mention that we do not teach that a person is saved by baptism.  Baptism is a symbol of regeneration, the work of the Holy Spirit in a person's life, the washing away of sin, the resurrection and new life of someone who believes in their heart that Jesus died and rose again for their sins, and who confesses with their lips that Jesus is Lord.  (Romans 10:9-10)   It is notable that when people come to faith in Scripture, and in modern experience, they seek to be baptized.  I believe this is the Holy Spirit moving that person into trusting Jesus with their life, a life that is now a witness of the grace of God through Jesus Christ.

Also, re-baptism is not something to do often.  We don't see it in Scripture.  Through Ashley's testimony, a couple of people have rededicated their life to Jesus, but we won't baptize them again.  Ashley's testimony is one of spiritual rebirth for the first time, in truth, so she was baptized like any new believer.

Ashley's testimony is not at all uncommon.  Does her story sound familiar to you?   If this resonates with you, do not be embarrassed!  Instead, ask your questions and know the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  We have a class starting this Sunday at 9 am, Starting Point, that is for you.  If you don't know Jesus, or aren't sure, even if you've been in church for a long time, please do not hesitate to come.

Blessings to you!

Pastor Scott
pastorscott@fbcsd.com

August Blanket Drive On Now!

Each week many Christian families face religious persecution in their home countries.  Through our "Feed My Sheep" food bank ministry, we feed many families in San Diego each week.  But along with food needs, we have many refugee families coming to San Diego each week who will need warmth for the upcoming winter. 

Would you be able to help?  We need new or gently used blankets, quilts, comforters and afghans for all bed sizes.   Please bring to church on Sundays throughout the month of August.

See Carri Butler for more information.  CarriButler@yahoo.com.

Thank you so much for your generosity and sharing the love of Jesus in such a tangible way!

Volunteer for San Diego CityFest

This morning at FBC was the next to last Executive Team meeting for the San Diego CityFest and Season of Service with Luis Palau.  So far, over 450 churches and over 30,000 volunteers have participated in the Season of Service.  The festival with Luis Palau is September 11 at Misison Bay, and voluneers are needed!

You can sign up to be a volunteer at www.festivalvolunteer.com for most areas needed.  (Kids "Fun Zone" volunteers must register differently for security reasons - you can contact Lyndsey White at lyndsey@fbcsd.com for information after August 18.  FBCSD is hosting 2 booths in the Family Fun Zone!)

Some Volunteer Opportunities Are:

• Ushers (over 400 are needed)
• Interpreters for the Deaf
• Special Needs Outreach
• Follow-Up
• Counseling
• Booth Volunteers
• Security
• Drivers
• Parking Attendants and Much more!

Most importantly, please be in prayer for those who will hear the Gospel who do not yet know Jesus Christ as their savior - and be praying for who in your oikos you can bring to CityFest!

Download Your CityFest Prayer Calendar Here

For more information about San Diego CityFest, please visit:

www.sandiegocityfest.com

San Diego CityFest 40 Days of Prayer Begins Today

TODAY (Monday, Aug 2) begins the 40 days of united prayer leading up San Diego CityFest!  

The link below has the prayer calendar that will be used by thousands of people in congregations all over San Diego and the world.  I encourage you to join with your family each day in praying for this amazing event that will be on Saturday, September 11, 2010.

In addition, please help get the word out by inviting others to join with us in prayer.  Please forward the prayer calendar to others who will pray, wherever they might be.

This is an exciting time in San Diego.  I look forward to sharing more with you about CityFest and ways to be involved in the coming days.  For more information about CityFest and the Season of Service, check out www.SanDiegoCityFest.com

Click here to download the CityFest prayer calendar!

Blessings to you!

Pastor Scott

Get Started in Psalms - Community 15 Day Reading Plan

We had such a great blessing from reading Proverbs together last month, so I want to encourage you to read Psalms with us, STARTING TODAY!  Now, we're only going to do Psalms 1-15 for now, as we'll be starting a prayer series at the end of the month.  But we'll do the all of them at intervals over the next many months.

So, starting today, July 12, I invite you to read one Psalm a day, just one chapter, for the next 15 days.  All of these Psalms are very short, not even an entire page.  This reading it isn't meant to replace your own devotions or other study, instead, its an opportunity to join with others in our church community in exploring God's word and what He is doing in our lives together.

This invitation isn't simply a charge to read the scriptures together, its an opportunity for us to share with each other what we are learning from the text, what God is saying to you, whatever is beneficial and encouraging.   It is an opportunity to grow spiritually together, as a congregation, in relationship with God and with each other.

So here's the deal. Read one chapter a day, starting with Psalms chapter 1 on July 12. Then spend some time reflecting on what is most impacting to you, and pray through it. Then share your thoughts and questions or insights with people who are a part of our church community at First Baptist. This can be done in many ways including in person or on the phone. Many of you reading this are connected with our church Facebook page, and that is a great place to post your responses. You can post there, or you can post to various blog postings here.

However you are led to share, we know God is going to work through His word in those who participate. I believe God will use your sharing to build community with brother and sisters in Christ in our congregation, and to encourage spiritual growth for all who are a part of our fellowship. So, I urge you to not keep to yourself what you have learned - pray through it and then share with the community one way or another.

I am excited about this time in our ministry together.  I know God will bless you through the inspiring Psalms you are about to read.

So, go ahead, take a break, read Psalms chapter 1, and see what God does...

Blessings,

Pastor Scott

 

Blessed is the man

who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked 

or stand in the way of sinners

or sit in the seat of mockers.

But his delight is in the law of the LORD,

and on his law he meditates day and night.

He is like a tree planted by streams of water,

which yields its fruit in season

and whose leaf does not wither.

Whatever he does prospers.

Not so the wicked!

They are like chaff

that the wind blows away.

Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,

nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.

For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,

but the way of the wicked will perish.

 - Psalm 1

 

Christmas in July: UT Article about Sudanese Refugee

This Sunday, we will start "Christmas in July", a food and sundry drive for Sudanese and other refugees living in San Diego.  Since the weather this week feels like Christmas in San Diego, its the perfect time!  We'll tell you more on Sunday morning, but we thought you might find this interesting...

An article in the Union Tribune was posted this week about one of the refugees we work with becoming a US citizen.  The article will give you some idea of a common story for many of the people you are serving through our Feed My Sheep food bank.  

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2010/jul/03/proud-new-american/

See you Sunday!   Oh, and Merry Christmas!

Summer Blast Day Four - Fun and Minsitry

Amid all the fun and excitement today, the kids are collecting canned goods for our Food Bank as part of our Feed My Sheep ministry.  They are decorating the bags and preparing them for delivery.  Many families in San Diego will be fed through this project!  We'll show you some of their artwork on Sunday!

A few pics for today...

Summer Blast Day Three - Full of Surprises!

We are at the half way point in Summer Blast!  Today, Acts 28, and surprises that you find in wood piles and surprises you find in God's Word!

Keep praying - here's some more pics...

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 31

Today, read Proverbs chapter 31 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

A wife of noble character who can find?

She is worth far more than rubies.

Her husband has full confidence in her 

and lacks nothing of value. 

 - Proverbs 31:10-11

Summer Blast: Day Two of Out To See

Summer Blast continued today, with kids learning about Paul and his shipwreck!  They learned about prayer and about trusting God no matter how things go from Pastor Tom!

And the fun continues... please keep praying for this week.

See more at facebook.com/fbcsd!

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 30

Today, read Proverbs chapter 30 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

"Every word of God is flawless;

he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.  

Do not add to his words,

or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar. 

 - Proverbs 30:5-6

Summer Blast: Day One - Out To See!

First Baptist Church of San Diego's annual kids camp (VBS) launched today with "Out To See!" 

All week long, kids from FBCSD and around University City will be running around out campus - or sailing we should say... having fun while learning Bible verses, singing praise songs, and learning about Bible Stories and how much Jesus loves them.  It is a great time for all, including the volunteers!

And, this Friday evening, we want YOU to get on board and join us for a fantastic BBQ on the patio to celebrate what God has done this week.  Once again, Beach Pit Barbecue is providing food.  Cost is just $6 per person.  Please RSVP with Lyndsey Mercer at lyndsey@fbcsd.com. 

Please pray every day this week for each of the kids, the volunteers and for Lyndsey Mercer, our Children's Director.  Its an important week for everyone!

Check out just a few pictures of today's fun below, and at our church Facebook page at facebook.com/fbcsd. 

We are so excited about what God is doing this week!

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 29

Today, read Proverbs chapter 29 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

By justice a king gives a country stability,

but one who is greedy for bribes tears it down. 

 - Proverbs 29:4

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 28

Today, read Proverbs chapter 28 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

A rich man may be wise in his own eyes, 

but a poor man who has discernment sees through him. 

 - Proverbs 28:11

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 27

Today, read Proverbs chapter 27 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

Let another praise you, and not your own mouth;

someone else, and not your own lips.

 - Proverbs 27:2

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 26

Today, read Proverbs chapter 26 and share your thoughts with the community,in person or by commenting here.

Like an archer who wounds at random

is he who hires a fool or any passer-by. 

 - Proverbs 26:10

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 25

Today, read Proverbs chapter 25 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

If you argue your case with a neighbor,

do not betray another man's confidence,
or he who hears it may shame you

and you will never lose your bad reputation. 

 - Proverbs 25:9-10

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 24

Today, read Proverbs chapter 24 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here. 

Do not gloat when your enemy falls;

when he stumbles, do not let your heart rejoice, 

or the LORD will see and disapprove

and turn his wrath away from him. 

- Proverbs 24:17-18

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 23

Today, read Proverbs chapter 23 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here. 

Do not move an ancient boundary stone

or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, 

for their Defender is strong; 

he will take up their case against you. 

 - Proverbs 23:10-11

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 22

Today, read Proverbs chapter 22 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.  

Rich and poor have this in common:

The LORD is the Maker of them all. 

- Proverbs 22:2

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 21

Today, read Proverbs chapter 21 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here. 

There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan 

that can succeed against the LORD. 

- Proverbs 21:30

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 20

Today, read Proverbs chapter 20 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here. 

The glory of young men is their strength,

gray hair the splendor of the old. 

- Proverbs 20:29

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 19

Today, read Proverbs chapter 19 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD,

and he will reward him for what he has done.  

- Proverbs 19:17

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 18

Today, read Proverbs chapter 18 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

He who answers before listening—

that is his folly and his shame. 

 - Proverbs 18:13

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 17

Today, read Proverbs chapter 17 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker;

whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished.  

- Proverbs 17:5

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 16

Today, read Proverbs chapter 16 and share your thoughts with the community, in person or by commenting here.

When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD,

he makes even his enemies live at peace with him.

- Proverbs 16:7

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 15

Today, read Proverbs chapter 15 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

A gentle answer turns away wrath,

but a harsh word stirs up anger.

The tongue of the wise commends knowledge,

but the mouth of the fool gushes folly. 

- Proverbs 15:1-2

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 14

Today, read Proverbs chapter 14 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

A simple man believes anything,

but a prudent man gives thought to his steps.

 - Proverbs 14:15

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 13

Today, read Proverbs chapter 13 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

He who walks with the wise grows wise,

but a companion of fools suffers harm.

Misfortune pursues the sinner

but prosperity is the reward of the righteous. 

Proverbs 13:20-21

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 12

Today, read Proverbs chapter 12 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here. 

He who works his land will have abundant food,

but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment. 

 - Proverbs 12:11

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 11

Today, read Proverbs chapter 11 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

The integrity of the upright guides them,

but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

- Proverbs 11:3

Skate Demo Outreach with Richard Jefferson This Thursday!

With school getting out soon and all the students looking forward to spending their free time skateboarding around town we thought why not have them skateboard at FBC? 

That is why THIS THURSDAY, June 10, we are bringing out professional skateboarder Richard Jefferson to put on a awesome demo of his God given ability to bust some jaw dropping and eye pooping tricks!

While Richard is an amazing skater he is also a brother in Christ.  We have chosen him to come and kick off our summer by not only skating with the students, but also by sharing his testimony of how he is a modern day prodigal son and is now back at home with the Father and loving every minute of it. 

Richard has been skating now to share the Good News of who Jesus is and how others can be saved through a true belief in Jesus as their savior.  God has been using his unique story to relate to students and share with them the truth about who Christ is and challenging the younger generation to live out their faith in Christ.   See video below!

Please pray for this outreach and invite any High Schooler or Middle Schooler you know

Thursday, June 10, 2010, 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm at FBC (Download Flyer Here)

 

To learn more about Richard Jefferson, see his website here:

http://bowskateboardministries.com/Home_Page.html

Thank you for your prayers - pray that many kids receive Christ on Thursday night!

Brandon Hall

brandon@fbcsd.com

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 10

Today, read Proverbs chapter 10 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

"The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out."

- Proverbs 10:9

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 9

Today, read Proverbs chapter 9 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

Do not rebuke a mocker or he will hate you;

rebuke a wise man and he will love you.

Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still;

teach a righteous man and he will add to his learning.

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom,

and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. 

 - Proverbs 9:8-10

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 8

Today, read Proverbs chapter 8 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

"To you, O men, I call out;

I raise my voice to all mankind.

You who are simple, gain prudence;

you who are foolish, gain understanding. 

- Proverbs 8:4-5

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 7

Today, read Proverbs chapter 7 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here. 

Keep my commands and you will live;

guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.

Bind them on your fingers;

write them on the tablet of your heart.

Say to wisdom, "You are my sister,"

and call understanding your kinsman; 

Proverbs 7:2-4

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 6

Today, read Proverbs chapter 6 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! 

It has no commander, no overseer or ruler,

yet it stores its provisions in summer

and gathers its food at harvest. 

- Proverbs 6:6-8

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 5

Today, read Proverbs chapter 5 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, 

and he examines all his paths.

The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him;

the cords of his sin hold him fast.

He will die for lack of discipline,

led astray by his own great folly.

- Proverbs 5:21-23

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 4

Today, read Proverbs chapter 4 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,

shining ever brighter till the full light of day.

But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness;

they do not know what makes them stumble. 

- Proverbs 4:18-19

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 3

Today, read Proverbs chapter 3 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

Let love and faithfulness never leave you;

bind them around your neck,

write them on the tablet of your heart.

Then you will win favor and a good name 

in the sight of God and man.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways acknowledge him,

and he will make your paths straight.

- Proverbs 3:3-4

Summer Blast Is June 28-July 2 - Sign Up Today!

It’s that time again! 

Register your kids for Summer Blast today... Here is the information that you need to know:

SIGN UP TODAY HERE:

www.SummerBlast.org

What is Summer Blast? Summer Blast is our weeklong camp put on by FBCSD. For an entire week, elementary students will be immersed in an adventure of a lifetime. The action doesn’t stop with music, teaching, snacks, crafts and games! Join us as we go OUT TO SEA to explore God’s love! You and your family are also invited to our SUMMER BLAST FAMILY NIGHT that will take place on Friday, July 2nd at 5:45 pm. Come hear about your child’s week at Summer Blast, meet other families and get in line for Beach Pit BBQ! You may sign up your family when you register your child for Summer Blast. Cost is $6 each additional family member.

What are the details?

• Theme: OUT TO SEA
• Dates and Times: June 28th-July 2nd/ Doors open at 8:45 and pick-up is from 12:00-12:15.
• Who’s Invited: Kid’s going into Kindergarten-6th Grade (2010-2011 school year)
• Where to Register: Register on Sunday Mornings outside the Worship Center, in our Church office (Mon-Thurs. 9am-4pm) OR online! www.SummerBlast.org 

What’s the cost and what does it include?

• Early Registration: Sunday, May 2nd- Sunday, June 20th: $35
• Late Registration: Monday, June 21st- June 28th: $40
• Cost includes a t-shirt, a tour guide, activities for the week and a one free child admission for SUMMER BLAST FAMILY NIGHT.  

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

• Once you register your child/ren, you will receive an email with additional Summer Blast information!

Hope to see you and your kids again soon!

Sign up today here:  www.SummerBlast.org

Lyndsey Mercer
Children’s Ministry Director
First Baptist Church of San Diego

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 2

Today, read Proverbs chapter 2 and share your thoughts with the community, in person on by commenting here.

He holds victory in store for the upright,

he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless,

for he guards the course of the just

and protects the way of his faithful ones. 

Proverbs 2:7-8

The Book of Proverbs: Reading Together as a Community - Chapter 1

Dear Scott,

As we continue our Sunday series through the book of First Peter, we are learning that we, "like living stones are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." Note that "stones" is plural. It is something that God is doing in us together.

For the next 31 Days, I invite you to do something with me, with each other, in community. Let's read the book of Proverbs together - one chapter a day for 31 days. Its not very much, barely a page a day in most Bibles, and it isn't meant to replace your own devotions or other study. But the invitation isn't simply to read the scriptures together, its an opportunity for us to share with each other what we are learning from the text, what God is saying to you, whatever is beneficial and encouraging. It is an opportunity to grow spiritually together, as a congregation, in relationship with God and with each other.

So here's the deal. Read one chapter a day, starting with Proverbs chapter 1 on May 31. Then spend some time reflecting on what is most impacting to you, and pray through it. Then share it with people who are a part of our church community at First Baptist. This can be done in many ways including in person or on the phone. Many of you reading this are connected wtih our church Facebook page, and that is a great place to post your responses. Another place to post online is to leave a comment on our church blog - we'll have a special posting every day for your to leave comment and share your thoughts.

However you are led to share, we know God is going to work through His word in those who participate. I believe God will use your sharing to build community with brother and sisters in Christ in our congregation, and to encourage spiritual growth for all who are a part of our fellowship. So, I urge you to not keep to yourself what you have learned - pray through it and then share with the community one way or another.

I am excited about this time in our ministry together - and I know you will love the next 31 days as you are blessed each day by wisdom that comes from God who loves us.

So, go ahead, take a break, read Proverbs Chapter 1, and see what God does...

Blessings,

Pastor Scott

The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:

for attaining wisdom and discipline;

for understanding words of insight;

for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life,

doing what is right and just and fair;

for giving prudence to the simple,

knowledge and discretion to the young-

let the wise listen and add to their learning,

and let the discerning get guidance-

for understanding proverbs and parables,

the sayings and riddles of the wise.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,

but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

- Proverbs 1:1-7

Sunday Reflection

"Have Your way in us"
What a great prayer to pray as His church. We belong to each other and through this unity we can demonstrate and announce His gospel of grace.

Here are some verses that I came across about God's desire for our unity. Meditate on these verses and consider how you can more reflect God's love through unity.


“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25).

"In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others" (Romans 12:5).

"Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body" (Eph 4:25).

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you" (2 Co 13:11).

"But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other" (1 Cor 12:24-25).


In Spirit and Truth,

J.R.