North Grenville Community Church

The concept of spiritual freedom is central to Free Methodist beliefs, emphasizing worship that is led by the Holy Spirit rather than rigid liturgical structures. This approach allows for spontaneous expressions of faith and innovative ways to experience God’s presence.

What Does Spirit-Led Freedom Mean in Worship?

Spirit-led freedom means worship isn’t confined to a strict format. It allows believers to:

In examining what it means to be part of the Free Methodist Church, we discover important lessons about inclusivity, humility, and avoiding attitudes of entitlement in church life.

The Danger of Church Entitlement

Throughout church history, there’s been a tendency for people to develop a sense of ownership over certain aspects of church life – whether it’s specific seats, positions, or recognition. In early Methodist churches, people would actually pay fees to rent their pews, creating a system of privilege and exclusion.

While we may not have such explicit practices today, similar attitudes of entitlement can still emerge when we start thinking in terms of “my church,” “my seat,” or “my way.”

What Does Scripture Say About Honor and Position?

The Bible consistently teaches that true honor comes from God, not human arrangements or achievements:

In 1 Samuel 2, Hannah’s prayer reveals that God is the one who “raises the poor from the dust” and “seats them with princes”

Jesus directly addressed the issue of seeking honor in Luke 14, teaching that we should take the lowest place rather than seeking places of honor

He criticized the Pharisees in Luke 11 for loving “the most important seats in the synagogues”

The Call to Radical Inclusivity

Jesus’s parable of the wedding banquet in Matthew 22 provides a powerful model for church inclusivity. The host sends servants to invite anyone they can find – “the bad as well as the good.” This challenges us to:

The Methodist movement, founded by John Wesley, was more than just another denomination – it was a spiritual awakening that transformed lives through intentional community and discipleship. Today, these same principles remain at the core of Methodist identity and practice.
 

What is the Foundation of Methodism?
The Methodist movement began within the Anglican Church when John Wesley started preaching and gathering people into small groups called “societies” or “classes.” These groups weren’t just about learning doctrine – they were about living out faith together in practical ways.
Wesley believed that spiritual growth happens best in community, where believers can encourage and challenge one another. This approach helped address social issues of the time, including widespread alcoholism and civil unrest in England.
 

Why Do Methodists Emphasize Community?
The Methodist approach to discipleship is inherently relational. Key aspects include:
Meeting regularly in small groups
Supporting each other through struggles
Confessing sins to one another
Helping alleviate suffering
Encouraging spiritual growth

This isn’t just about attending Sunday services – it’s about doing life together throughout the week. As Jesus said in Matthew 18:20, “Where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
 

Freedom in Christ is often misunderstood. While many claim to be free, true biblical freedom has a deeper meaning that goes beyond political or personal autonomy.

What Does It Mean to Be “Free” in Christ?

Jesus teaches that true freedom comes through knowing and following Him. In John 8:31-32, He states that when we hold to His teachings and know the truth, we will be set free. This freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want – it’s about being liberated from sin’s control over our lives.

How Does Sin Enslave Us?

Many people don’t recognize their need for freedom because they’re blind to their own sin. Just as the people in Jesus’ time claimed they weren’t slaves to anything, people today often don’t see how sin entraps them. This can manifest in:

• Inability to keep commitments
• Struggling to love others
• Destructive patterns of behavior
• Addiction
• Anger and unforgiveness

What Makes the Free Methodist Approach Different?

The Free Methodist church embraces several key principles:

• Freedom from sin through Christ
• Free will in choosing salvation
• Freedom to serve and submit
• Freedom from legalism
• Freedom in worship and spiritual expression

How Should Christians Use Their Freedom?

According to Galatians 5, Christians are called to use their freedom not for self-indulgence but to serve others in love. This creates a balance between two extremes:

Legalism: Using freedom to impose strict rules

Liberalism: Using freedom as an excuse for sin

True Christian freedom means being:

• Free from sin’s control
• Free to choose Christ
• Free to serve others
• Free to submit to authority
• Free to follow the Spirit’s leading

Life Application

This week, consider how you’re using your freedom in Christ:

Are there areas where sin still has a grip on your life?

How can you use your freedom to better serve others?

Are you living in legalism or license rather than true freedom?

Challenge yourself to identify one area where you need to experience more of Christ’s freedom, and take practical steps toward that freedom through prayer, accountability, and active faith.

Remember: True freedom isn’t about doing whatever you want – it’s about being free to become who God created you to be and serving others in love.

Introduction

Welcome to our journey of faith and mission. We are the Ja Eue family—Matthew, Alison, Josiah, and Mikaela. We are excited to share how God has called us to spread the love of Jesus among the unreached Isaan people in Northeast Thailand. Our story is one of divine guidance, prayer, and perseverance, and we hope it inspires you to reflect on your own calling and the power of prayer in your life.

A Journey of Divine Guidance

From War-Torn Myanmar to Missionary Calling

Matthew’s journey began in the midst of conflict in Shan State, Myanmar. Born prematurely during a war, his parents dedicated him to serve the Lord. After fleeing to Thailand to escape the violence, God planted the seed of a missionary calling in his heart. This calling was confirmed when he met an American missionary at his Buddhist boarding school. Matthew’s path led him to complete a Bachelor of Theology in Bangkok and receive mission training at James O. Fraser Center, where he met Alison.

Alison’s Path to Thailand

Alison grew up in a godly home with a passion for missions, instilled by her home church, Chapel Ridge Free Methodist Church. After three mission trips to Africa, God redirected her to Thailand for a university exchange. It quickly became clear that Thailand was where God had been preparing her to serve. After Matthew served as the lead pastor in a Thai church for two years, Alison and Matthew got married and began their mission together.

Miracles and Ministry in Northern Thailand

God’s Power in a Shan Village

After their wedding, Matthew and Alison served in a Shan village, Muang Na on the Thailand-Myanmar border. Despite warnings of the village being hard ground, God showed up powerfully. When Sujira, who had been sick for seven years, was healed after their prayers, it led her relative Mae Tong to become interested in Jesus. This miracle sparked a wave of faith in the village, with many experiencing God’s power firsthand.

Reaching Out to Teenagers

One of their focuses was on teenagers, using music, English, entertainment, and food to reach out. Teenagers experienced answered prayers, and some put their faith in Jesus, which opened doors to reach their families. Dtem, one of the teenagers, experienced God’s power when his motorbike started immediately after a simple prayer. He invited Matthew and Alison to pray for his uncle Lung Nae on his deathbed. Lung Nae believed and was healed by God!

The Burden for the Isaan People

A Call to the Unreached

While serving in Northern Thailand, God placed a burden on their hearts for the Isaan people, an unreached group in Northeast Thailand. The Isaan people, marginalized and overlooked, suffer from persistent poverty and have deeply rooted traditional beliefs. With only 0.01% evangelical believers, the need for the gospel is immense.

Vision Trips and Confirmation

Two vision trips to the Isaan region confirmed their calling. They joined Pioneers, a mission organization focused on making Christ known among unreached people groups. They plan to move back to Thailand in March 2025 for their first four-year term, focusing on evangelism, healing prayer ministry, and home church planting in rural villages.

Lessons from Nehemiah: Responding to God’s Burden

The Power of Prayer

Nehemiah’s story resonates deeply with Matthew and Alison. Nehemiah’s burden for Jerusalem led him to pray and fast for four months before taking action. His reliance on prayer and God’s guidance is a powerful example for all believers. When faced with challenges, Nehemiah prayed and trusted God to open doors, just as Matthew and Alison have experienced in their ministry.

Perseverance Through Trials

Nehemiah faced considerable opposition while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, but he persevered through prayer and practical steps. Similarly, Matthew and Alison have faced spiritual battles and opposition in their ministry. They have seen God’s power overcome obstacles, such as the healing of Sujira and the spiritual battles they encountered in the village.

Life Application

Embrace Your Burden

Reflect on the burdens God has placed on your heart. Whether it’s for children, youth, vulnerable people, or a specific group, turn that burden into action through prayer and practical steps. Just as Nehemiah and the Ja Eue family did, seek God’s guidance and trust Him to open doors.

The Power of Prayer

Commit to a life of prayer. Nehemiah’s story and the experiences of Matthew and Alison show the power of prayer in overcoming obstacles and seeing God’s hand at work. Make prayer a central part of your life and ministry.

Persevere Through Trials

When faced with challenges, remember Nehemiah’s example of perseverance. Trust that God is with you and will fight for you. Take practical steps to address challenges while relying on God’s strength and guidance.

Questions for Reflection

Conclusion

The journey of faith and mission is one of divine guidance, prayer, and perseverance. As you reflect on the story of the Ja Eue family and the lessons from Nehemiah, consider how God is calling you to respond to the burdens on your heart. Embrace the power of prayer, persevere through trials, and trust that God will guide and empower you in your journey. Together, we can bring the hope and love of Jesus to those who need it most.

Introduction

The Visit of the Magi: Recognizing the King

Who Were the Magi?

The Magi, often referred to as wise men, traveled from the East to Jerusalem, guided by a star, in search of the newborn King of the Jews. Their journey symbolizes the recognition of Jesus’ kingship by the Gentiles, emphasizing that Jesus came for all people.

The Significance of Their Gifts

Upon finding Jesus, the Magi presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts were not only valuable but also symbolic:
– Gold: Representing Jesus’ kingship.
– Frankincense: Symbolizing His priestly role.
– Myrrh: Foreshadowing His suffering and death.

Herod’s Reaction

Jesus’ Early Ministry: From Baptism to Miracles

The Gap in Time

The sermon highlighted the 30-year gap between Jesus’ birth and the start of His ministry. During this period, Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, preparing for His mission. This gap reminds us that God’s timing is perfect, even when it seems slow to us.

John the Baptist’s Role

John the Baptist played a crucial role in preparing the way for Jesus. Despite his own successful ministry, John recognized that he must decrease so that Jesus could increase. His humility and recognition of Jesus’ superiority are powerful lessons for us.

The First Miracle

Trusting God’s Promises

Holding On to Faith

The sermon emphasized the importance of holding on to God’s promises, even when our plans don’t go as expected. Mary treasured the prophecies about Jesus in her heart, waiting patiently for His time to come.

Dealing with Doubt

The Simple Gospel Message

Belief in the Son

John 3:36 encapsulates the core of the gospel: “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” This simple yet profound message is the cornerstone of Christian faith.

The Connection Between Christmas and Easter

Life Application

Embracing Humility and Trust

As we reflect on the sermon, we are challenged to embrace humility and trust in God’s plans. Like John the Baptist, we must recognize that our lives are meant to glorify Jesus, not ourselves.

Questions for Reflection
1. How can I trust God’s timing in my life, especially when my plans don’t go as expected?
2. In what areas of my life do I need to decrease so that Jesus can increase?
3. How can I hold on to God’s promises during times of doubt and uncertainty?

Weekly Challenge

Conclusion

The journey from Jesus’ birth to His ministry teaches us valuable lessons about faith, patience, and humility. By trusting in God’s timing and holding on to His promises, we can navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence. Let us strive to make Jesus greater in our lives, embracing the simple yet profound message of the gospel.

Introduction

As we approach Christmas, it’s fitting to reflect on the story of Mary, a central figure in the nativity narrative. Her journey, filled with unexpected turns and divine encounters, offers profound lessons on faith, trust, and the power of God’s promises. This summary will delve into Mary’s story, exploring how her experiences can inspire and guide us in our own faith journeys.

Who Was Mary in the Bible?

Mary, a young woman from Nazareth, was chosen by God to bear His Son, Jesus. Her story is not just about the miraculous birth but also about her unwavering faith amidst fear and uncertainty. When the angel Gabriel visited her, she was initially troubled, much like many other biblical characters who encountered divine messengers.

How Did Mary React to God’s Plan?

Mary’s initial reaction to the angel’s message was one of fear and confusion. Despite being told she was highly favored, she struggled to understand how she, a virgin, could conceive a child. This reaction is relatable; often, God’s plans for us can seem daunting and beyond our comprehension.

The Role of Fear in Faith

Fear is a common theme in the nativity story. Zechariah, Joseph, the shepherds, and even Herod experienced fear when confronted with God’s plans. Today, we too are often gripped by fear, whether from personal challenges or the overwhelming negativity in the world. Yet, the consistent message from God is “Do not be afraid.”

Trusting in God’s Word

Mary’s story teaches us the importance of trusting in God’s Word. Despite her doubts, she clung to the angel’s message and the promises of God. This trust is crucial, especially when our own plans are disrupted. God’s Word is a steadfast anchor in times of uncertainty.

The Power of Community and Testimony

Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth highlights the importance of community and shared faith. Elizabeth’s own miraculous pregnancy served as a testament to God’s faithfulness, encouraging Mary to trust in God’s promises. Similarly, we need the support and testimonies of our faith community to strengthen our own belief.

Holding on to God’s Promises

Mary’s song of praise, known as the Magnificat, reflects her deep trust in God’s promises. She recognized that God’s mercy and faithfulness extend from generation to generation. This acknowledgment of God’s enduring promises can inspire us to hold on to our faith, even when circumstances are challenging.

Life Application

Applying Mary’s Lessons to Our Lives

Mary’s journey teaches us several key lessons:
1. Embrace God’s Plan: Even when it disrupts our own, trust that God has a greater purpose.
2. Overcome Fear with Faith: Remember that God’s message is one of hope and not fear.
3. Seek Community Support: Lean on your faith community for encouragement and strength.
4. Hold on to God’s Promises: Trust that God’s Word never fails.

Questions for Reflection

1. How do I react when my plans are disrupted?
2. What fears am I holding onto that prevent me from fully trusting God?
3. Who in my faith community can I turn to for support and encouragement?
4. What promises from God’s Word can I hold onto during challenging times?

Conclusion

Mary’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, trust, and community. As we navigate our own journeys, let us draw inspiration from her example, holding onto God’s promises and supporting one another in faith. This week, challenge yourself to trust in God’s plan, seek support from your faith community, and hold onto the promise that God’s Word never fails.

Introduction

During the Advent season, we have been exploring the characters of the Christmas story and how their lives were interrupted by God’s divine plans. From Zechariah and Elizabeth to King Herod, Joseph, and now the shepherds, each story reveals a common theme: life changes unexpectedly, but God’s plans are always greater. This summary will delve into the lessons we can learn from these biblical characters and how we can apply them to our own lives.

Zechariah and Elizabeth: Trusting God’s Timing

Zechariah and Elizabeth, the parents of John the Baptist, experienced a divine interruption when an angel announced the birth of their son. Despite their old age, they trusted God’s timing and plan. This story reminds us that God’s promises may not align with our timelines, but they are always fulfilled in His perfect timing.

King Herod: The Danger of Resisting God’s Plan

King Herod’s interaction with the wise men highlights the danger of resisting God’s plan. Herod’s fear and desire for control led him to oppose the birth of Jesus. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of trying to thwart God’s will and the importance of surrendering to His greater plan.

Joseph: Embracing Unexpected Changes

Joseph’s life was turned upside down when he learned that Mary was pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Despite his initial shock and confusion, Joseph chose to trust God’s plan and embrace the unexpected changes. His story teaches us the importance of faith and obedience, even when our plans are disrupted.

The Shepherds: Worship in the Midst of Fear

The shepherds were ordinary people going about their daily lives when an angel appeared to them, announcing the birth of Jesus. Their initial reaction was fear, but they were reassured with the message, “Do not be afraid.” This encounter led them to worship and spread the good news. The shepherds’ story illustrates that worship can be a powerful response to fear and uncertainty.

Coping with Life’s Interruptions

In today’s world, we often talk about coping mechanisms to deal with stress and unexpected changes. While techniques like deep breathing can be helpful, as believers, we have a unique resource: worship. Worshiping God can provide peace and grounding, even in the midst of life’s chaos. When we declare that Jesus is Lord, we acknowledge His sovereignty over our circumstances, which can bring comfort and joy.

Biblical Examples of Worship in Difficult Times

Job: Worship in Suffering

Job, known for his immense suffering, declared, “The Lord gives and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.” Despite his trials, Job chose to worship God, demonstrating that worship can be a source of strength and resilience in difficult times.

The Shepherds: Immediate Worship

The shepherds’ immediate response to the angel’s message was to go and see Jesus. They then spread the word and returned, glorifying and praising God. Their story shows that worship can be a spontaneous and natural reaction to encountering God’s presence.

The Wise Men: Worship Despite Danger

The wise men traveled a great distance and faced potential danger from King Herod to worship Jesus. Their journey and the gifts they brought symbolize the importance of seeking and honoring God, even when it requires sacrifice.

The Disciples: Worship in Doubt

After Jesus’ resurrection, the disciples worshiped Him, even though some doubted. This teaches us that worship is not contingent on having all the answers or being free from doubt. It is an act of faith and trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty.

Life Application

Embrace Worship as a Coping Strategy

When life doesn’t go as planned, turn to worship. Worshiping God can shift our focus from our problems to His greatness, providing peace and perspective.

Reflect on God’s Faithfulness

Consider the times in your life when God has been faithful, even in the midst of fear and uncertainty. Let these memories fuel your worship and trust in Him.

Challenge for the Week

This week, make a conscious effort to worship God daily, especially when you feel stressed or afraid. Whether through prayer, singing, or reading scripture, let worship be your response to life’s interruptions.

Questions to Ponder

1. How do you typically react when your plans are disrupted?
2. What are some ways you can incorporate worship into your daily routine?
3. How can you remind yourself of God’s faithfulness during challenging times?

Conclusion

The Christmas story is filled with examples of lives interrupted by God’s divine plans. From Zechariah and Elizabeth to the shepherds, each character teaches us valuable lessons about trust, obedience, and worship. As we navigate our own life’s interruptions, let us remember to turn to worship, trusting that God’s plans are always greater than our own.