Friday, October 19, 2018

The Intersection of Hospitality and Evangelism


“Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

- Jesus, to a woman with an alabaster jar of perfume.

These are words that every person longs to hear.  During our series in hearing about practical evangelism, we’ve heard words of preparation, availability and encouragement.  Today, we hear about the ability of Jesus to look past the poor hospitality of his host to see beyond the ‘presumed’ sin of the woman, and look upon her faith that saves her.

Who is the host?

What does it mean to incorporate hospitality in evangelism?

How does evangelism look past sin to the faithfulness of those who are longing to come close to the Saviour?

This week Assistant Bishop Stephen Schultz will share with us the saving faith in Christ Jesus and the peace that comes from it.

Pastor Reid Matthias

Bible Reading:  1 Peter 3:15-18; Luke 7:36-50
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Request
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request. 

Preparing for Marriage Seminar 2018
Saturday 27th October 9am – 5pm and continuing on Sunday 28th October 1.30pm to 5.30pm at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 388 Montague Road, Para Vista.  An enjoyable, interactive, non-threatening way to share time with your partner and other couples, bringing benefits that can last a lifetime.

Topics include: resolving conflict, realistic expectations, communication, and the meaning of marriage.  Presented in a relaxed adult educational style (it is not counselling).  For couples planning to marry and for those recently married.

Cost $100 couple
For more information or to book, please contact Merv and Ros Thiele 0429009847 or email: mervrost@bigpond.net.au

AGM Ladies Fellowship Meeting
Tuesday 30th October Bible Study with Pastor Reid
As this will be our last meeting a reminder to pay fees now due.
Christmas lunch 4th December at the Blue Gums Hotel $19.90 per head – payment to Dawn Spencer.

From the Office

Synod Popular Report
As per our conversation over Coffee and Theology last Sunday, the attached link is a copy of the popular report presented by the Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand.  In it you will find a brief description of the decisions made by the 19th General Synod that meant in Sydney.

We will continue our Coffee and Theological discussion this Sunday looking at the questions that arise from hermeneutics (how we read the Bible) with regards to 1 Timothy 2:8-15 and 1 Corinthians 14:26-40.  http://www.convention2018.lca.org.au/category/news/

Updating the Manse
The manse is currently undergoing a significant upgrade to the kitchen, dining and living area.  If you have any time spare in the next week please let Stephen or the office know of your availability and the skill you may have to assist in keeping costs to a minimum. 

Church Library
The library computer has been upgraded into the 20th century - now running a Windows based system rather than DOS.  Please be patient as our librarians endeavour to bring the system back up to speed.  It is intended that all members will be able to access the system via the church website allowing you to browse the available resources from anycomputer.  You will require a library card to borrow items.  If you require one, please contact the office or mark your connect card with “library card”.

Notice Board


Peter Steicke’s new book ‘Favoured’ is now available in paperback on pre-order now.  Contact Peter directly to order your copy today.  psteicke@starfishoz.com.au

Holy Cross Birdwood Christmas Trees
$40 each
Contact Susan Ronan on 8568 5102 or susanronan@bigpond.com

“Hymns We Love”
Come for a time of informal community singing of hymns you love.  To be held at 
Zion Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Road, Glynde on the first Monday of the month starting November 5th, then December 3rd and January 7th.  Come at 10-30 for cuppa and biscuits.  No cost – just come!

If you need more information, please contact Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/8367 9969.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”
Luke 19:10