SPOTmail Express!!!

So far in our unit, "Consider Where You Are Going", we have discussed the topics of: what is your goal in life and what hope do you have.  As a refresher, our goal is to live in such a way that we will be as holy as possible when we meet Jesus.  Our hope comes from our relationship with Jesus and knowledge that when we die we go to spend eternity with him.  This week we will address the question - Are You Ready?  The study will be based on 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. 

As I write this lesson preparation note I have to admit that I am not ready - but it's not Sunday yet.  Come Sunday at 10:30 I have every expectation of being ready.  How about you?  Something tells me this is not the type of readiness Paul will be talking about.  See you Sunday as we check it out. 

Finally, the friend I mentioned in class last week was ready when the call came.  She went to meet Jesus this past Tuesday evening.  Enjoy walking on the streets of purist gold Debbie!

Don

The Mid-Week Update!!!

Lesson Recap

1st Thessalonians 4:13-18

Consider Where You Are Going

What Hope Do You Have?

In 80 percent of all boating accidents, the cause of death is drowning; but in 90 percent of those drownings, the person was not wearing a life vest.  As this relates to the lesson, at the time Paul wrote this letter to the believers in Thessalonica were dying by natural causes and possibly at the hands of Christian haters.  Even though hope was available, many chose not to embrace that hope, much like people refuse to wear a life vest.  Paul's purpose was to instill hope for those that were dying and their loved ones.

Our Hope As Christians-v13 

Sometimes people wearing life vests may drown because they do not know how to wear them properly.  The Thessalonians were frustrated about their loved ones who had died, yet in Paul's brief time with them he had not taught them about what happened to a believer prior to Jesus' return. Paul informed them that he did not want them to grieve like the rest of men who have no hope.  They had hope because, unlike unbelievers, they had a genuine faith in Jesus which can help believers bear deep grief. To get the benefit of a life vest a boater must wear it properly.  Believers have a hope that is secure, but like the boater we must make sure we have embraced the hope we have in Jesus.

Our Hope: Christ's Resurrection and Return-v14 

What are some reasons wearing a life vest might bring peace of mind to a boater?  Paul revealed a truth about our natural grief when a loved one dies.  The truth is that while the body is placed in the grave to return to the dust from which it was created-the spirit goes joyfully into God's presence!  Though we grieve the broken fellowship with our loved one-we can and should dwell on the glorious truth that they are consciously present with the Lord.  A boater can feel secure when properly wearing a life vest.  One reason we should feel secure in the Lord, even in death, is the truth of Christ's resurrection and return.

Our Hope: Christian's Resurrection and Return-vv15-17

Not everyone who wears a life jacket is saved, but it is estimated on average that about 431 lives would be save in one year if all water activity participants wore a life jacket.  In these verses Paul presents five disclosures.  They are:

1.   The deceased believers are at no disadvantage to those still alive at Christ's return.
2.   Christ's return will be accompanied by incredible sounds.
3.   The Christian dead will rise from their resting place. 
4.    Believers still living at Jesus' return will be caught up alive, meet the Lord in the air, and join the resurrected deceased believers.
5.    One day all believers will be fully united with each other and with the Lord forever.

Christ's death and resurrection is available to all who will receive it; but like those who refuse to wear a life vest, people must 'wear' that message as they would the vest.  What does this mean to you?

Our Hope: Comfort-v18

What comfort does wearing a life vest bring to a person?  What is the purpose of a life vest?  If I leave the vest behind before I enter the water what good will it do me?  Paul's use of the word 'therefore' at the beginning of v18 indicates that he is bringing the reader to a point of application.  What application does Paul want the reader to make here?  How would Paul's words have brought comfort to those who had lost loved ones?  How can Paul's words comfort us when we must face our own death?

Conclusion:  Death happens to persons of all ages.  Your teen either knows of a peer that has died or will.  What source would you use to comfort your teen?  How can this lesson help you discuss the topic of death, the return of Jesus, and the resurrection of all believers with your teen?

Class Muny Outing

We will be occupying the free seats to see 'Little Shop of Horrors' on Saturday, July 30th.  Come early with a picnic dinner to enjoy some fellowship as we wait for the gates to open!  

3rd Annual SPOT Camping Trip

Once again we will be visiting the beautiful Bennett Spring State Park area.  Our trip will take place from August 12-14th.  We will be at a new location this year with the ability to have many more activities for those that wish them.  Canoeing this year will be done on your own as opposed to a group, but the facility can provide the canoes. There is also the ability to horseback ride, and to join a hayride..or even learn to fly fish!  Camping rates are $6 per person for those in tents.  They also have 'glampers' available.  These are fully air-condition tents with cedar floors and a queen bed in each.  Glampers are $95 per night.  The location is called Redbeard's Ranch.  You can find much more information here.  We need to find out the number that are going so that we can finalize the reservation, so please let Kevin know ASAP at mpeman@charter.net.

Snacks

• 6/19   Meinhardt
• 6/23    Hurt

Prayer Requests

• Ronda's back is much better
• Kevin's sister is having great difficulty finding a job.  

Lesson Preview!!!

Lesson Preview

 We introduced our new unit of study - Consider Where You Are Going - last week.  The first lesson answered the question "What is your goal in life?"  This week, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 will aid us in our discussion of "What Hope Do You Have?" 
     Speaking of hope, have you considered the fragility of hope?  When a person is in a desperate situation, he/she sometimes loses hope.  On the other hand, when facing a positive setting, it often infuses a person with hope.  So, what is it that causes situations to be hopeful or hopeless?  Let's get personal: What causes us to have hope in a seemingly hopeless situation?  Perhaps the answer can be illustrated in a true Cardinals' fan.  There is always hope until the last at-bat of the game is complete.  (As Ginger likes to say, "We're not winning yet.")

We'll look at Thessalonians Sunday and see what perspective Paul takes on the subject. 

Don

The Mid-Week Update!!!

Lesson Recap

After a bit of catching up with everyone we jumped right into the lesson:

1st Thessalonians 4:1-12

Consider Where You Are Going

What Is Your Goal In Life?

     Carla and John, both believers, met in Iraq while serving in the U.S. Army.  They fell in love and planned to marry as soon as their tour of duty ended and they were back home.  Both completed their military obligations and received honorable discharges.

     As they returned to civilian life, they looked forward to not having to follow orders any more.  "It was OK while it lasted.  But from now on we are living by that great old song, 'I Did It My Way'!  We have accepted Jesus as our Savior.  Surely we deserve the satisfaction that comes from enjoying adult freedom.  Doesn't God want us to be happy?"  Do you agree with their outlook on life and why?

     The answer to this question is based on one's goals in life.  This was the topic of this lesson.  In the first half of Paul's letter he complimented the Thessalonians and reminded them of all he wanted for them, and what he had done on their behalf.  In this lesson Paul turns a corner and transitions to a practical application.

Principle to Follow 1-2

    We identify that Paul is making a transition here when he says in verse 1 'finally then'.  The principle that Paul is suggesting be followed is that our behavior either pleases God or it doesn't.  If this is a principle we desire to follow-how can we know what pleases God?

Purity to Practice 3-8

     Many believers want to know God's will in their life.  In these verses it is revealed that God's will is for us to be holy.  In some translations the word holy is translated as "sanctification".  Sanctification means personal holiness.  Here sexual purity is the requirement for sanctification implied by Paul.  This is not the only requirement for sanctification as seen in verse 2. In verse 4 "body" is translated as "vessel".  "Vessel" can refer to the reproductive organs or a man's wife.  Either or both apply to Paul's message.  There is a warning in verse 6-God will punish such sins.  Sexual purity is a big deal to God and it would do us well to get our theology regarding this from God's word.  It may even help our teens.  How can our teens maintain sexual purity in a society that ignores biblical standards?

Love to Exhibit 9-10a

     Paul states that it was not necessary for him to elaborate on brotherly love as this is one thing they were doing right-earlier in his letter Paul stated that word had already spread about the Thessalonians faith and love!  Why is God pleased when believers actively express love for one another?

Lifestyle to Have 10b-12

     These instructions wrap up Paul's thoughts before he moved on to a new topic in verse 13.  Here he covers four areas that, if neglected, could cause trouble in a believer's life, and thus the church.  Paul tells us how to avoid the issue:

1. Apathy-do so more and more
2. Restlessness-lead a quiet life
3. Meddlesomeness-mind your own business
4. Idleness-work with your hands

Conclusion:

     Paul's goal for the church in Thessolonica was that they love each other more and more.   This goal covers all the other points that were made in this lesson.  Following are questions for consideration:

How can I grow in my love for God?

How can I grow in my love for my family?

How can I grow in love for my church?

How can I grow in my love for my unsaved family and friends?

Muny Show

The winning show has been chosen!  With a grand total of four votes, "Little Shop of Horrors" is the show that those in the class who are interested will go to see.  We will attend on Saturday, July 30th and sit in the free seats.  Bring a picnic dinner and join us in line!

Blood Drive

A blood drive is being held at Concord by the American Red Cross on Monday, June 13 from 3-7PM in the Atrium.  For an appointment call Rhonda Reimler at 636-464-6737 or visit redcrossblood.org (use Sponsor Code Concord Church).  Walk-ins are welcome but appointments take priority!

  

Snacks

6/12  Decker

6/16  Meinhardt

6/26 Hurt

Prayer Requests

  

• College kids finished spring semester (praise)
• College kids are now at home (prayer)
• Carolynn Amen's continued progress in rehab 
• Keep praying for new Fine Arts Minister
• Brooks/Ginger/Phil have 2 nieces beginning mission work this summer.  Melissa with Campus Crusade in Branson, and Kim in Swaziland.
• Allen with ongoing child custody legal issues, and possible different job in the same company.

    

 

 

     

 

A Request...

I received an email this afternoon from a congregation member via Jeremy.  They thought that I could get word out to the parents of kids in CSM (or otherwise!) that might be able to help with this opportunity.  The request comes from Sharmin Noltkamper.   Her husband Michael is on vacation as of today, and they would appreciate it very much if they can get some assistance from the youth class. They are willing to pay $10.00 an hour. They have yard work, also patching up a piece of fence,... it would be very helpful if they could assist Michael starting tomorrow or during this week.  Any kids that are interested can contact Sharmin at (314) 609-5046.

Thanks!

SPOTMail!!

Lesson Preview

As you may recall from nearly two weeks ago, we have begun a study of Thessalonians.  Our series consists of three modules.  We completed the first part entitled  "Remember Where You Were" at our last meeting.

This Sunday, we begin the second section, "Consider Where You Are Going."  We will consider the question "What Is Your Goal in Life?"  The lesson is based on

1 Thessalonians 4:1-12.  Hmmmm.  I wonder what Paul's point of view will be?  

It's been a fortnight since we last convened, so let's plan on spending the first few minutes in class catching up with everything that's been happening in our lives.  Some of our kids have graduated, some are back home -- some are still home -- and we're all looking forward to the summer (if God doesn't surprise us with a snowstorm).

See you in the usual SPOT!

SPOT,

Don

2011 Graduates BBQ

Both high school and college graduates are invited to attend a celebration BBQ in their honor at Suson Park this Sunday, June 5, after 10:30  worship.  Pass this info along to your favorite graduate!

Strawberry Festival

Don't forget the annual Missouri Baptist Children's Home Strawberry Festival this Saturday, June 4, on the MBCH campus in Bridgeton.  The event begins at 9 a.m. and continues until 3:00 p.m.

Concord folks will be staffing the Milk Shake Booth, so be sure to stop by to sample their wares.  For more information -- and the opportunity to volunteer -- call Bill McKee at 314-894-2545.
 

Concord Car Show

You won't want to miss another big event this Saturday:  Concord's 4th Annual Car Show.  There are always cool cars and trucks, demonstrations, and a surprise or two.  It starts at 4 p.m. and lasts until dusk ('bout 9 p.m.).

That means you have just enough time to hustle on down from Bridgeton after a day at the Strawberry Festival and enjoy a full evening of mobile entertainment.  Don't drive too fast, however.  There won't be any awards for the most impressive speeding ticket!

Cardinals Baseball Tickets

Yep,  Brad Slinkard still has tickets for the Cardinals June 18th game against the Kansas City Royals.  SPOTclass members (or anybody Brad Slinkard knows -- or anybody that knows anybody Brad Slinkard knows) can buy $37 tickets for just $15.  That's a real ticket you can hold and the ink doesn't rub off on your hands.  In case you haven't heard this suggestion before, these tickets would make a great pre-Father's Day gift!  (You can ask Dad to pay you back later.)

As a bonus, the student choir from Taylors First Baptist Church in Taylors, SC (directed by Concord's former Fine Arts Pastor, Kevin Batson) will sing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" during the 7th inning stretch.  Tickets are in section  372 of the Left Field Pavilion (right above Big Mac Land).  Contact Brad at 314-494-5081 or email at bs4@sbcglobal.net.

Blood Drive (yet another headline that requires red ink)

There will be a blood drive at church on Monday, June 13.  The blood-letting begins at 3 p.m. with cookies and other treats to follow (if you're still conscious).   The drive officially wraps up at 7 p.m., but if you show them a good vein, the Red Cross volunteers just might stay later.  You can sign up in the Atrium this Sunday or visit www.redcrossblood.org (use sponsor code 'Concord Church').

vbs NEEDS VOLUNTEERS.  'NUF SAID

Contact Debbie Elder, 314-843-3500, or debbie@concordlife.com.

SPOT Snacks

6/5          LaRowe

6/12        Decker

Prayer Requests

• Carolynn Amen is now in rehab, but keep praying for her -- there's a long way to go.
• Relief from migraines for Kevin Hurt
• Prayers that a new Fine Arts Pastor arrives soon
• Prayers for all those affected by the massive damage from the tornadoes throughout Missouri and the US. 

The Mid-Week Update!!!

Lesson Recap

1st Thessalonians 2:17-3:13

When Others Cared for You

Men, have you ever sent flowers to someone you love?  Women, have you ever received flowers from someone you love?  Why does it mean so much to people to receive flowers from someone you love?  

"The young pastor was asked to meet with the deacons at the insistence of an irate Sunday school teacher who had felt slighted by the pastor.  He has apologized to her and tried to correct his accidental oversight, but the wasn't enough for her.  Just before the meeting, a crisis arose with a young couple in the church.  The wife was critically ill, and her husband was distraught.  They called for their pastor.  He sent word to the deacons that he would be at the hospital.  He sat and prayed with the man all night.  Though the pastor knew that his ministry was hanging by a thread, his concern for the couple was greater.  His action demonstrated his concern for others even when he himself was hurting."

Think of an example of demonstrating care for someone else when you are in the midst of crises, pain or conflict. In this lesson we saw Paul being transparent about his loving concern for the Thessalonians in the midst of his own concerns.

2:17-20 Personal Words

In this passage we see Paul using personal and emotional words.  Find some examples.  Why do you think that Paul was so emotional in his writing?  Of the 4 terms that Paul used for the Thessalonians-hope, joy, crown, and glory, which one would you most desire someone use to describe you, and why?

3:1-5 Encouraging People

What does it mean to encourage?  It means to instill courage.  What do you think were Paul's motives for encouraging the Thessalonians?  When was a time you were in need of encouragement and God sent someone your way?

3:6-10 Affirming Words

In general terms, what report did Timothy give regarding the believers in Thessolonica?  What signs might we look for that would indicate a believer is standing firm in the Lord?  Would you say it is more affective to affirm or correct? Another term for affirmation is positive reinforcement.  Psychology tells us it is much more affective to affirm someone when doing something positive than correct the person when doing something wrong.  Why would you say this is so?

Each of us are challenged to find a situation to affirm our teen at least 5 of the 7 days this week.

3:11-13 Loving Prayers

In these three verses Paul makes 3 prayer requests.  They are:

1. He is verifying that Jesus is equal to God, an essential point in this day and time.
2. Increase and overflow are words of abundance.  Love is the greatest Christian virtue (1 Cor. 13)
3. Holiness is a heart matter.  Paul desires they be ready to meet Jesus in as holy a state as possible at the unknown time of His return.

Conclusion:

1. We show concern for other Christians by offering them personal words of encouragement.
2. We show concern for other believers by putting them in contact with those who will encourage them and help them grow spiritually. 
3. We show concern for other Christians by making encouraging statements to them.
4. We show concern for other believers by praying for them to make spiritual progress. 

Memorial Day

There is only one service at 10:30 AM this week, so class will not be meeting.  See you in two weeks!

Muny Voting

...will continue for a but more.  The voting sheet will be kept in the SPOTfolder.  Vote for your fave! 

2011 Graduates Party

Both high school and college graduates are invited to attend a celebration BBQ in their honor at Suson Park.  The party will be Sunday, June 25th, after 10:30 AM worship.  Pass this info along to your graduate!

Annual Strawberry Festival 

 This event will happen at the Baptist Children's Home on June 4th from 9AM-3:30 PM.  The event really needs our help.  You can sign up to work a shift and you can donate milkshake supplies (i.e. chocolate syrup, canned pineapple, etc).  You can also donate old blenders or blender parts.  Information, or to sign up, can all happen at the Welcome Center, or you can contact Bill McKee at 314-894-2545.
 

 Baseball Tickets

Each year Brad Slinkard offers the SPOTclass tickets for a summertime Cardinal game at discounted rates. This year's game is on Saturday, June 18 against our cross state rival, the KC Royals.  Tickets in this section are normally $37, but they're available through Brad at just $15. That's much better than StubHub and these are a genuine bargain with no pesky processing or delivery fees.  And you don't even have the use the ink in your printer.  In exchange for your $$$ you actually get a real ticket.    It's a good Father's Day gift (as that is Father's Day "Eve").  There's (virtually) no limit on the number of tickets you can purchase for your family and friends. Tickets are in section  372 of the Left Field Pavilion (right above Big Mac Land).  Contact Brad Slinkard at 314-494-5081 or email at bs4@sbcglobal.net.

Blood Drive

There will be a blood drive at church on Monday, June 13th from 3-7 PM.  You can sign up in the Atrium, or visit redcrossblood.org (use sponsor code 'Concord Church'). 

Concord's 4th Annual Car Show

...will be on Saturday, June 4th from 4PM to 9PM.  This is always a fun event!  Details can be found here.

Vacation Bible School

...NEEDS VOLUNTEERS!!!   Adult volunteers are needed for a number of area's.  For more info or to volunteer contact Debbie Elder, 314-843-3500, or debbie@concordlife.com.

Snacks

• 5/29 No Class-Memorial Day
• 6/5 LaRowe
• 6/12 Decker

  

Prayer Requests

• Carolyn Amen is out of ICU and still slowly recovering.
• Zenobia is done with chemo, surgeries and radiation!
• Zenobia's dad has been diagnosed with early dementia.  Pray that the doctors and treatments will be accurate and slow down the illness as much as possible.
• Prayers for Fine Arts Pastor. 
• Prayers for all those affected by the massive damage from the tornado's throughout Missouri, and the US. 

 

 

 

 

Prayer Request

• Please pray for Allen Decker.  He got called to Joplin to help with water and sewer issues there.  He is witnessing firsthand the massive devastation left in the wake of the tornado there.  He reports that the damage left there is horrible.  Pray that God give him peace,wisdom, and comfort.

• Pray for everyone in Joplin.  This disaster will leave scars for quite a while.  Pray that God quiets souls and provides the solace and assurance that only He can.

SPOTmail!!

If you're reading this, you haven't been raptured . . . so, we'll see you in class tomorrow!

Lesson Preview

This week will be our third lesson in 1 Thessalonians.  So far, we have covered the topics of:

• When You Started Out -- Reminding us of the joy and zeal we had at the time of our salvation experience.
• When Others Helped You -- All of us recalled people in our past that gave of themselves to help us grow in our faith.  Our conclusion to this study was to pass it on.

This week we will look at the topic, "When Others Cared for You".  Some people care for us like a mother.  They tenderly nurture us.  They lovingly help us recover from scrapes and scratches.  Then, there are the "typical" Dad-type care-givers.  They tell us to "suck it up" with a firm slap to the back.  Their goal is to make sure we are prepared to handle the hard stuff life dishes out.  Who are some of the spiritual care-givers in your life?  How do you see yourself in the role of spiritual care-giver to your teens?  Let's talk about it Sunday.

See you then,

Don

SPOTlunch

SPOTlunch is on this week at Lion's Choice on South Lindbergh.  Get a great roast beef sandwich with your fries and indulge in a mini ice cream for dessert!  Plan on meeting us there right after class.

Snacks

This Sunday:  Luther

May 29:  Memorial Day weekend -- no class

June 5:  LaRowe

Prayer List

Jeff Bradshaw is recovering at home after a bout with pneumonia

Carolyn Amen is still hospitalized after more than a month with complications from pneumonia

Kevin Hurt's father has been hospitalized

College students returning home

Allen Decker's child custody issues

Baseball Tickets

Each year Brad Slinkard offers the SPOTclass tickets for a summertime Cardinal game at discounted rates. This year's game is on Saturday, June 18 against our cross state rival, the KC Royals.  Tickets in this section are normally $37, but they're available through Brad at just $15. That's much better than StubHub and these are a genuine bargain with no pesky prossessing or delivery fees.  And you don't even have the use the ink in your printer.  In exchange for your $$$ you actuallly get a real ticket.    It's a good Father's Day gift (as that is Father's Day "Eve").  There's (virtually) no limit on the number of tickets you can purchase for your family and friends. Tickets are in section  372 of the Left Field Pavillion (right above Big Mac Land).  Contact Brad Slinkard at 314-494-5081 or email at bs4@sbcglobal.net.