Register for GO Conference 2024
Weekly Bulletin
December 1, 2024
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Sunday Worship
Prelude: Christmas Day
Call to Worship
Sing We the Song of Emmanuel
Welcome & Announcements
Bethany Family Prayer
Praise the Lord Ye Heavens
Come Behold the Wondrous Mystery
Sermon: A Sure Obedience
Trust and Obey
Communion
Benediction & Compassion Offering
Weekly Schedule
View our calendar HERE for the weekly schedule.
Highlights
Advent Devotional: Truly, Truly
Available in the Foyer
This year our Advent Devotional, Truly, Truly, was written by our very own Bethany Church staff. Beginning December 1, this devotional explores the 25 “Truly, truly” statements of Jesus in the book of John.
Each day’s reflection includes Scripture, prayer, application questions, and action steps. You can pick up a book at the table in the foyer or visit bethanycentral.org/trulytruly to download a digital copy.
Christmas Night of Worship
Sunday, December 08, 6:00 pm
Come celebrate the joy of Christmas and the incredible gift of Jesus at our Christmas Night of Worship! Enjoy an evening filled with carols, Christmas classics, and beloved songs that help us reflect on the hope of the season. Stay afterward for a dessert reception with festive treats and fellowship.
Holiday Services Schedule
Check out our upcoming holiday services schedule.
Special Christmas Eve Service: Tuesday, December 24th, 4pm. No child care provided.
Combined Worship Services: Sunday, December 22nd and Sunday, December 29th will each be a single service at 9:30 am. We will also not have Sunday School or Children’s church but nursery is available (0-2yrs).
Announcements
Staff & Pastors Christmas Gift
The elders are collecting gifts to express our love and appreciation for our pastors & staff at this special time of year. Envelopes are available at the welcome tables or give by going to bethanycentral.org/staffgift.
Upcoming GO Trips
Our Global Outreach team is excited to announce two upcoming short-term trips for 2025, open to everyone interested in participating. In July 2025, a team will embark on a mission trip to Malawi, followed by an evangelistic trip to New York City, also in July.
To learn more and apply for either of these life-changing opportunities, go to bethanycentral.org/gotrips.
High School Winter Camp 2025: Registration is Open!
Winter Camp registration is open! All 9th-12th grade students are welcome to join us on January 17th-19th at The Uplands for a weekend of fun games, challenging lessons, and engaging small group and fellowship time. The cost is $150 per student, with scholarships available. Register for the Early Bird Discount by December 11th to get $25 off per student. Go to bethanycentral.org/wintercamp to learn more and register.
Bylaw Change Q&A Session
Wednesday, December 11 at 6:00 pm
We have an important vote on proposed changes to our church bylaws coming up at the January congregational meeting. To help prepare, we’ll host three Q&A sessions to answer questions and discuss the details of these changes. The next session will be Wednesday, December 11 at 6:00 pm. The proposed changes are posted on the office window. The proposed changes are posted on the office window.
Together in Prayer
Wednesday, December 04, 6:30 pm
The first Wednesday of the month from 6:30-7:30pm you can take part in a special time of prayer. The group will meet in the sanctuary. Email Josh Moon [email protected], for more information and any questions.
Caterpillar Foundation Matching Opportunity
If you are a Caterpillar employee or retiree we encourage you to take advantage of the Caterpillar Foundation 2:1 matching gift for eligible charities. This is happening from Dec 2nd-6th. While the match does not apply to donations to churches, there are many faith-based groups that do qualify. You can learn more at bethanycentral.org/catmatch. Caterpillar is not the only company that provides a match – be sure to check with your employer!
Discussion Questions
Icebreaker
If you could instantly become an expert in one random, obscure skill, what would it be and why? (Ex: master of folding fitted sheets).
Discussion Questions
What are some common reasons that we may feel weary in doing good? Do you think there is a difference between “burn out” and the weariness that Paul is describing here?
Paul tells them to “take note of that person.” Is there a component here of judgment that might take place? How does that harmonize with Jesus’s command to “judge not?” Look at 1 Corinthians 5:12. Does this passage help to clarify the two?
Does Paul’s instruction to “have nothing to do” with the person who does not obey strike you as harsh? How does that connect with his later instruction to “warn him as a brother”? Is there a connection here to the process of church discipline found in other passages (Ex: 1 Cor 5)?
Application Questions
Do you think that weariness carries a spiritual component? What would be your advice to someone who tells you they are feeling weary in doing good? How might we be steadfast and immovable in our work and ministry?
Why do you think Church discipline is important in the local church? What might happen to a church that isn’t serious about dealing with Christians who do not obey clear biblical commands? How can you personally and lovingly help those struggling in sin?
In what ways can you help to provide accountability and support for your local church? Do you see yourself taking part in your local church in a way that harmonizes with Paul’s commands in this passage? Why or why not?
