Jesus Is The Answer...What Is Your Question? -- Pr Elvis Mogoi

Added: 2026-06-01

[00:00:00]Heat. Heat.

[00:00:51]Heat. Heat.

[00:01:14]Heat. Heat. N.

[00:01:36]Heat.

[00:01:53]Heat.

[00:01:59]Heat. Heat.

[00:03:38]Heat.

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[00:04:19]Countdown. Good morning, church family, and happy Sabbath. We welcome you to our church this morning. I'm going to ask our praise team to come and sing a greeting song. As we just greet each other in fellowship, we'd like to say a special welcome to Jan and Terry and Tom and uh Michael and Chris and Laura who are here today. They're first time grandparents and they're here today for baby dedication that will be a little later in the service. But right now, let's stand and give each other a warm welcome and a happy Sabbath.

[00:04:54]You need somebody in Jesus name to tell them that you love him in Jesus name. Tell him we can work together in Jesus name. Everybody smile.

[00:05:10]Jesus loves you. Everybody smile.

[00:05:15]Jesus loves you.

[00:05:22]In Jesus name in Jesus name we can work together. In Jesus name everybody smile.

[00:05:36]Jesus loves you. Everybody smile.

[00:05:40]Jesus loves you.

[00:05:47]Everybody's smile.

[00:05:49]Everybody smile.

[00:05:52]Smile. Everybody smile.

[00:05:56]Everybody smile.

[00:06:00]Smile.

[00:06:01]Let us greet somebody in Jesus name. Let them tell them that love in Jesus name. Tell them we can work together in Jesus name. Everybody smile.

[00:06:18]Jesus loves you. Everybody smile.

[00:06:22]Jesus loves you.

[00:06:36]>> And he loves this morning Sabbath lesson was so wonderful about the law and it made me think which one of the law that God asks us to remember. Please turn with me in your Bibles to Exodus 20 verse 8. Exodus 20, please. And when you find it, please stand.

[00:07:02]That's Exodus 20. Thank you, my brother.

[00:07:03]Thank you. Exodus 20:8.

[00:07:18]Thank you. We just have about everyone standing now.

[00:07:24]It's one of our commandments and the only commandment that begins with the word remember. We'll read this responsibly. I'll read a verse, then we'll read a verse, and then we'll read the second last verse together. Number eight, Exodus 20:8. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy, congregation.

[00:07:49]>> But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work, you nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates together. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hollowed it. Please bow your heads. Gracious Father in heaven, we are so thankful for the seventh day Sabbath that you gave to us.

[00:08:26]We are so thankful for you bringing us through another week and bringing us here to worship together. We are so thankful for your love and your protection in all that we do. We are so thankful to you dear heavenly father. We ask you to bless us continually through this service and to all who has a participants that will bring glory and honor to you in the sweet and precious name of Jesus. Amen. You may be seated.

[00:08:49]At this time we'll have our announcements and then we'll have our praise team.

[00:08:56]Happy Sabbath, Baltimore White Marsh family, and welcome to another week where we are blessed with an opportunity to rest, praise, and give honor to our Lord and Savior.

[00:09:08]Before we dive into this week's service, we have some exciting announcements to share with you. So, let's take a moment to listen and mark our calendars for what's coming up in the life of our church.

[00:09:20]We're excited to announce that Flag Camp is coming to Baltimore White Marsh from July 13th to 17th. Flag Fun Learning About God is a dynamic week-long day camp for children ages 5 to 13. Each day is filled with worship, fun activities, and opportunities for kids to grow spiritually while building lasting friendships. Space is limited, so don't wait. Register early and share this opportunity with your friends, family, and community. See you there.

[00:09:51]Calling all fathers and father figures.

[00:09:54]The women's ministry invites you to a special father's day lunch on Saturday, June 6th. This will be a time to honor and celebrate the men who lead, love, guide, protect, and pour into the lives of their families, our church, and our community. Join us for delicious food, great fellowship, and special tributes.

[00:10:15]As we show appreciation for the important role you play in our lives, we do not simply thank you for what you do.

[00:10:22]We celebrate who you are and the lasting legacy you are building in the lives you touch. See you there.

[00:10:31]Church family, we're inviting you to be a part of something special. our first impressions team. This is your opportunity to be the first smile someone sees and help create a warm, welcoming experience for everyone who walks through our doors each Sabbath. If you have a heart for people and a passion for making others feel seen and valued, we'd love for you to join us.

[00:10:53]Training will be held on Friday, June 6th at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. Additional details are coming soon. Stop by the fit team desk any Sabbath between 9:30 a.m.

[00:11:03]and 12:00 p.m. or reach out to Karen Bruce or Martha Miller to get involved.

[00:11:08]Let's continue to love, lead, and grow together.

[00:11:15]The Men's Ministry of Baltimore White Marsh invites all men to our quarterly prayer breakfast on Sunday, June 7th at 10:00 a.m. in the Voit Fellowship Hall.

[00:11:24]This special gathering will be a time of fellowship, prayer, encouragement, and practical wisdom. Our featured presentation will be given by brother Joshua Annen on the secrets to financial freedom. Come ready to enjoy breakfast, connect with others, and be spiritually and personally strengthened. As Proverbs 27:17 reminds us, "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. We encourage all men to attend and invite a friend.

[00:11:57]Church family, you are invited to join us for the memorial service for Delva Bowers on Sunday, June 7th at 1 p.m.

[00:12:04]Please come as we gather to support the family and remember the love, faith, and kindness she shared with those around her. Your presence will be a meaningful expression of comfort and support during this time of remembrance.

[00:12:20]Your health matters and your community cares. Join us on Saturday, June 13th from 1 to 6:00 p.m. for a medical camp and community health screening event.

[00:12:29]Free screenings will be available for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and more. Free medical consultations will also be offered by health care professionals, including internists, pediatricians, dentists, psychiatrists, optometrists, and physical therapists.

[00:12:46]Please help us spread the word of this by sharing this information with family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers, and anyone who may benefit from these free health services. This event is also in need of volunteers. If you would like to serve and support this important community outreach effort, please reach out to our health ministries leader, Dr. Ezin Wadi. Please pre-register using the QR code on the flyer. This is more than a health event. It is an opportunity to extend care and remind our community that healing often begins when people know they are not forgotten.

[00:13:25]Church family, you are invited to join us for our Pathfinder investature on Sabbath, June 27th. On this day, we will recognize our Pathfinders for their growth, commitment, and achievement as they continue their journey in Christian development, service, and leadership. We invite you to come support and celebrate our pathfinders as they are recognized for their hard work and encouraged to keep standing firm for God. Your presence will remind them that their church family sees them, believes in them, and is committed to helping them carry a message of hope to the world, and pointing others to King Jesus, who is coming back for you and me.

[00:14:09]Also later in the evening, the Pathfinders will host their first awards gala. This special evening will celebrate the hard work, dedication, growth, and achievements of our young people throughout the year. The gala will be an opportunity for the church family to show support, recognize their accomplishments, and encourage them as they continue to develop in faith, service, leadership, and character.

[00:14:32]Tickets are $10 per person and proceeds will go directly towards supporting the Pathfinder Club. For more information, please reach out to Sister Ida or Lynette. We look forward to seeing you there as we celebrate with our Pathfinders and help make this first awards gala a meaningful and memorable occasion.

[00:14:55]We are excited to announce our upcoming eCamp, Travelers for Truth, a faith-based, fun-filled enrichment camp for children and youth. This camp will run from June 29th to July 10th from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Baltimore White Marsh Adventist School. It is designed for children ages 3 to 15. And throughout the program, children will be exploring, encouraged, and equipped as they grow in faith, build friendships, and enjoy engaging activities centered on God's truth. We encourage all parents to take advantage of this opportunity and get your children involved. It is going to be a meaningful and exciting journey of learning and spiritual growth.

[00:15:44]We're excited to introduce our upcoming couples enrichment program. A 12-week faith-based journey focused on relational growth and healing. Strong relationships don't happen by chance.

[00:15:55]They grow with intention. This program is designed to help couples build, strengthen, and restore their relationships in a supportive and engaging environment. Each session will include guided discussions, many seminars, and interactive workshops covering topics like communication, conflict resolution, and building healthy Christc centered relationships.

[00:16:16]The program begins on June 13th at 300 p.m. and will take place every Saturday for 12 weeks. To learn more or register, please visit www.urbanlifecenter.org.

[00:16:36]We're excited to launch our Adventist Community Services fundraiser. We are offering official ministry polo shirts for $40. And every purchase directly supports the vital work we're doing in our community, providing food to families in need, diaper distributions, coat drive, and distribution, and strengthening ongoing outreach efforts.

[00:16:57]This is more than a shirt. It's a way to wear the mission and make an impact. If a shirt isn't for you, you can still support the cause by making a donation of any size. Every contribution helps us continue this important work. Get yours today. Represent with purpose and help us continue to love, lead, and grow in our community.

[00:17:22]>> And that concludes our announcements and reminders for this week. As we transition into our time of worship, let us open our hearts and minds to the presence of the Lord. Have a blessed and wonderful Sabbath.

[00:17:56]graduate that you know and they've graduated from kindergarten to senior.

[00:18:01]We have a lot of young adults here in our church who have had their um received their masters and uh and different diplomas and different age graduates. Please send me that information. The last Sabbath of of June, which is actually on June 27th, we have what we call graduate recognition.

[00:18:18]We recognized all graduates. And even if they're not able to be here, if you can send me their picture, their uh the school that they're graduating from, as well as what um what they got the degree in or what school they're going to, we just want to include them in our graduate recognition. That will be on June 27th. And next, we'll make sure that we have a slide that was sent there and unfortunately got overlooked, but it's um the slide that will show you where to send that information. Thank you. Thank you very much.

[00:18:48]>> Amen.

[00:18:52]>> Good morning, church, and happy Sabbath.

[00:18:54]>> Good morning.

[00:18:54]>> Morning.

[00:18:55]>> It's so wonderful to be in the house of the Lord this morning. Amen.

[00:18:58]>> Amen.

[00:18:58]>> If you're happy to be in God's house this morning, let me hear you say, "Hallelujah."

[00:19:02]>> Hallelujah.

[00:19:03]>> If you're happy to be in the house of the Lord this morning, let me hear you say, "Praise the Lord."

[00:19:07]>> Praise the Lord.

[00:19:08]>> All right. I invite you to guys to stand as we sing our first song. We gather together.

[00:19:28]We gather together to ask the Lord blesses each and his will to make known.

[00:19:43]Now we get oppressing.

[00:19:47]Now cease from distressing.

[00:19:50]Sing praisees to his name. He forgets not his own.

[00:20:00]He us joining our day and sering his kingom behind.

[00:20:15]Oh, from the beginning the fight we are waiting the Lord without glory.

[00:20:31]We are the exalt triumpant and pray that thou still will be. Let thy congregation has tribulation.

[00:20:53]Thy name be ever praise. Oh Lord, make us free.

[00:21:04]Our next song is I just want to be where you are.

[00:21:28]I just want to be where you are.

[00:21:34]Dwelling daily in your presence.

[00:21:40]I don't want to worship from afar.

[00:21:46]Draw me near to where you are.

[00:21:51]I just want to be where you are in your dwelling place forever.

[00:22:03]Take me to the place where you are.

[00:22:08]Cuz I just want to be with you.

[00:22:14]I want to be where you are.

[00:22:18]Dwelling in your presence, facing at your table, surrounded by your glory, in your presence.

[00:22:33]That's where I always want to be.

[00:22:39]I just want to be.

[00:22:43]I just want to be with you.

[00:22:54]I just want to be where you are in your dwelling place forever.

[00:23:06]Take me to the place where you are.

[00:23:12]Cuz I just want to be with you.

[00:23:18]I want to be where you are.

[00:23:22]Dwelling in your presence, meeting at your table.

[00:23:29]Surrounded by your glory, in your presence.

[00:23:37]That's where I always want to be.

[00:23:42]I just want to be I just want to be with you.

[00:23:52]Oh my God, you are my strength and my song.

[00:24:00]And when I'm in your praises, though I'm weak, you always strong.

[00:24:09]I just want to be where you are in your dwelling place forever.

[00:24:21]Take me to the place where you are.

[00:24:26]Cuz I just want to be with you.

[00:24:34]I just want to be I just want to be I just want to be with you.

[00:24:50]>> Amen.

[00:24:51]>> Amen.

[00:24:51]>> Our last song is Jehovah is your name.

[00:25:07]Jehovah is your name.

[00:25:15]Oh, Jehovah is your name.

[00:25:27]Jehovah is your name, oh Lord.

[00:25:36]Jehovah is your name.

[00:25:47]Jehovah is your name.

[00:25:54]Yay!

[00:25:56]Jehovah is your name.

[00:26:06]Jehovah is your name.

[00:26:16]Jehovah is is your name.

[00:26:23]He's a mighty warrior.

[00:26:31]>> He's a great mighty warrior.

[00:26:46]>> Mighty praise.

[00:26:53]in my Lord is great.

[00:26:59]Is your name >> Jehovah is your name.

[00:27:06]>> Jehovah is your name.

[00:27:13]>> Jehovah is your name. You might only warrior mighty great mighty warrior mighty warrior My is your name.

[00:28:23]Jehovah is Jehovah.

[00:28:30]Your name.

[00:28:33]>> Oh, praise his holy name.

[00:28:40]Your name.

[00:28:43]What mighty name it is your name?

[00:28:52]>> Jehovah is Jehovah is your name.

[00:29:03]Mighty warrior, mighty warrior mighty warrior.

[00:29:25]>> Mighty warrior.

[00:29:30]Great.

[00:29:33]My God is your name.

[00:29:45]Jehovah is your name.

[00:29:52]>> What a name.

[00:29:54]What a true is your name.

[00:30:04]It is your name.

[00:30:13]>> Praise his name. Praise his name.

[00:30:17]might raise your hand.

[00:30:29]Glory might I love his heart is your name.

[00:31:12]>> Take care of my ex.

[00:31:22]At this time, we invite our children to come forward.

[00:31:33]Right.

[00:31:39]We don't have a lot of children here today.

[00:31:42]Hey Sam, it's so good to see you. You're welcome.

[00:31:47]Um, please come forward.

[00:31:50]In my heart, >> we have a lot of our children are part of the adventure group. They're up at Mount Edna.

[00:31:57]>> Joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart, down in my heart to stay.

[00:32:07]I am so happy.

[00:32:13]The love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:32:17]I am so happy, so very happy.

[00:32:23]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:32:28]I got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart. Where? Down in my heart. Where?

[00:32:36]Down in my heart. I let a joy joy. Joy joy down in my heart.

[00:32:45]in my heart to stay.

[00:32:49]And I'm so happy. I'm so very happy.

[00:32:54]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:32:59]I am so happy. I'm so very happy.

[00:33:04]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:33:09]I've got the love of Jesus. Love Jesus in my heart. Everywhere in my heart in my heart. Love of Jesus. Love of Jesus. Bound in my heart. Bound in my heart to stay.

[00:33:29]I am so happy.

[00:33:32]So very happy.

[00:33:35]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:33:39]I am so happy. I'm so very happy.

[00:33:45]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:33:49]I am so happy. He's so very happy.

[00:33:55]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:34:00]I'm so happy.

[00:34:02]So very happy.

[00:34:06]I have the love of Jesus in my heart.

[00:34:12]>> Okay, boys and girls, thank you for collecting.

[00:34:20]Remember, let's bow our heads, boys and girls, and say a prayer. Gracious father, we thank you so much for the offering that was collected from our children. We ask the blessing on this offering because it goes to help and support our school and bless the children and those who are able to give.

[00:34:35]In your name, Jesus. Amen. Thank you.

[00:34:38]Alrighty. Hey, Kletchi, you going to sit over there? Do you want to sit over with your kids? You good? Okay, Kletchi's good. Good morning, boys and girls. And happy Sabbath.

[00:34:47]>> Oh my goodness. My boys and girls must be sleeping. Are you sleeping? I'mma open them up. One, two, three. You're not sleeping. Good morning, boys and girls. And happy Sabbath.

[00:35:01]>> Happy Sabbath. It's good to say. I have a big question to ask you boys and girls. You ever get hungry?

[00:35:10]You ever get hungry? What What do you do when you get hungry?

[00:35:14]>> You get >> You get >> You get cake. Okay. You get cake when you're hungry. What else do you do when you get hungry?

[00:35:24]>> You get You make food.

[00:35:28]>> You make food when you're hungry. Right.

[00:35:29]And what do you do when you get hungry?

[00:35:32]I like chicken.

[00:35:34]>> You like to eat chicken?

[00:35:37]>> Oh. Oh, you like chicken. Okay. Okay.

[00:35:39]You like chicken. And what do you do when you get hungry?

[00:35:42]>> I eat fruits.

[00:35:43]>> Okay. You eat fruits when you're hungry.

[00:35:45]Very good. Who do we tell we're hungry to? When your stomach starts hurting and you're really hungry, who do you talk to?

[00:35:55]>> Pancakes.

[00:35:56]>> Oh, pancakes. Pancakes is a good one, too. But do you go and you tell mommy or daddy or somebody that you're hungry?

[00:36:04]What do you do when you're hungry? Can you think about it? Think about it.

[00:36:08]Well, I'm going to tell you a story about children and people who were hungry. And these were the children of Israel and they were very hungry. They had only been out of is Egypt for two months, but they got hungry. And they said to Moses, "Moses, we are very hungry. What are we going to do? We're out here. We have no food to eat.

[00:36:30]And you know what Moses told them?

[00:36:33]They said that to Moses. But Moses went to God and asked God, "What should my children do?" And God told Moses to tell the children of Israel, "I will rain manor down for the children to eat."

[00:36:49]Have you ever seen snow fall from the sky? Have you seen the snowfall? Raise your hand. Have you seen the snow fall from the sky? Well, that's what manner would be like. it will rain from the sky. And the children of Israel were told when it rains from the sky that you can go out and gather it to gather it in your baskets or your bowls for your family and then you can come inside and you can eat it. But the children were also told only gather enough for that one day. Don't gather extra because God is only providing the mana for that one day. for each day he provided fresh mana. And if the children thought, "Well, I don't think there's going to be enough for tomorrow. I'm going to save this over here in the carpet." You know, when you're really hungry, you have an apple in your lunchbox or something you just want to eat for later. They thought, "Well, I can take this manner and I'm going to save a little bit."

[00:37:47]No. You know what would happen to the manor? It would have worms in it and it would be stinky because God told Moses to tell the children only gather enough that you need for each day.

[00:38:02]But on the preparation day, you know what day that is? On Friday, God told the children, God told Moses to tell the children, "Gather enough for two days."

[00:38:18]For two days. So we'll have enough for that Friday and have enough for Sabbath.

[00:38:23]And you know why he said gather for two days.

[00:38:27]Did you think the children trust trusted him? Some did. But some said, "Oh, I'll wait and I'll get up in the morning and I'll go and look and get my manner that next morning." But the next morning on Sabbath morning, there was no manner outside. There was only manner that Friday. And each week this went on like that for Sunday and Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday and Thursday. They had mana for that one day. Enough. If they gathered too much, they had enough. If they didn't gather enough, they had enough for that day. And they didn't they couldn't save it for the next day.

[00:39:07]But on the preparation day, they gathered enough for two days.

[00:39:13]and it didn't spoil. And that Sabbath morning, their mana was beautiful and healthy and good to eat. And there was a reason God did that because God wanted the children of Israel to trust him.

[00:39:27]They wanted the children of e Israel to remember that it was God once they got there straight. And it was God who was going to protect them even out there in the wilderness all by themselves.

[00:39:38]God wanted him to know, wanted the children of Israel to know that he was there for them. So that even they each day they had to depend on him and trust in him and know not to think and do it on their own because aren't we like that? Boys and girls, don't we have to remember that we can't do things on our own? Even though you said you have to ask your mommy or daddies to help you when you're hungry, but in this case, the children of Israel had to depend and wait on Jesus, they had to learn to trust Jesus and to remember the the importance of the Sabbath day and what it meant to rest on the Sabbath day, to rest in Jesus. Isn't that what we're to do to remember how important it is? We read this morning to remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. To remember that do no work, no labor on all things because the the Lord hollowed and blessed the Sabbath day way back then and he's blessed our Sabbath days today. So we have to remember boys and girls that on the Sabbath day is our day that we rest in the Lord in all things and he will take care of us and watch over us and protect us. How about that for something to remember? Good thought.

[00:41:01]Okay. Would someone like to pray for us today? You want to pray some bless food and bless everybody and bless us. Amen.

[00:41:11]>> Amen. And would you like to pray too?

[00:41:13]>> Thank you, God. Thank you for this day.

[00:41:16]Thank you for everything. And in Jesus name we pray. Amen.

[00:41:22]>> Amen. Thank you so much. Oh, we have one more. Dear heaven father, thank you to you everybody because you love everybody. Amen.

[00:41:30]>> Amen. Thank you boys and girls and thank you so much for being up here for our story today. You can go back to your seats. Thank you. Go back to your seats.

[00:41:50]Passion.

[00:42:06]Amen. We praise God for the Sabbath.

[00:42:08]Amen.

[00:42:09]And I believe those lessons of trusting God are both for the young and for the not so young that we may learn to rely on Jesus as we grow in his ways.

[00:42:20]It's a blessed uh Sabbath again that we are actually privileged to have another child dedicated to Jesus Christ. What can the church say?

[00:42:32]>> It is a blessing whenever that actually happens to be able to have a child dedicated to Jesus. So we're going to have some important prayers for the sake of this child and more. So for that reason I just want to ask for the support of the elders to receive this family here. So elders team if you don't mind please come and join me. Let's receive this family together as we get ready for uh the dedication uh today.

[00:43:09]Amen.

[00:43:11]Thank you so much.

[00:43:18]So, it is definitely a joyous occasion and um uh I think Tim back there um Nigel uh I'm ready whenever you are. You guys can switch it whenever you're ready. Uh the family that we are trusting God for today um is a young baby by the name of Rachel.

[00:43:43]We love that name already.

[00:43:45]>> Yes. Okay. Good. And so I have heard from reliable sources that Rachel is not wanting to run here by herself. So we want to invite Rachel to come together with her parents at this time. Uh Lisa and Benjamin, please come and join us first. Please, let's just appreciate them as they come up this morning.

[00:44:06]Welcome, welcome. Thank you for coming.

[00:44:09]We are so grateful. Please come and join us up here if you don't mind. Feel free to come all the way. All right. Hello.

[00:44:18]Good to see you. You're holding my hand already. That's strong. I like that.

[00:44:22]Welcome again. And Benjamin, welcome. So glad to have you here with us. Feel free to stand close by here just in the middle where the elders are. We're grateful that you could be here with us again for this day. You know, I definitely got to hear a little bit about this name and uh I was told that uh Ben's grandmother uh name was Rachel and we are grateful for that and also the aunt to listen the name was Rachel as well. So this name runs in the family and so we're grateful for that. And uh the name Teresa also comes from Lisa's grandmother as well.

[00:45:00]And so there's a names that are running through the family here. So we thank God for that. So uh Lisa and Benjamin, I want to ask for some help to be sure I don't mess up the last two names. Is that okay? So let me give you the microphone. Then you can help us to be sure we say it right. How is that?

[00:45:22]>> Georgian Merose.

[00:45:24]>> Did you guys get that? So in case I mess it up, you at least have heard it right.

[00:45:29]Let's do it one more time.

[00:45:31]>> Georgian Merose.

[00:45:33]>> Georgian Meros. Am I close enough in the neighborhood, right? Thank you. Thank you so much. And so we are grateful for the blessing of being able to have this wonderful child come to be dedicated today. and the parents here. We have Lisa, we have Benjamin. Thank you again for coming today for this dedication.

[00:45:52]Now, the beauty is I heard that you do not come by yourselves. We have friends and family who have come to support them on this occasion. Friends, will you be okay to come and join at this time? Just come on up if you can to be able to support them. Please, let's appreciate them as they make their way to come.

[00:46:10]Thank you so much. Let's come around. Be close.

[00:46:16]All right. Thank you so much. Come, let's stand close to them. The elders have made room so you can stand just close to the family here as we take this day. Thank you so much. It is a blessing to be a part of this dedication this day. Uh thank you again for for coming to to be with us. And so um in this season when we do a baby dedication uh there are many things that we do rejoice. One of the scripture texts that was chosen for this dedication is coming from the book of 1st Samuel 1 27 and 28.

[00:46:51]This is a prayer who of a mother who says this I prayed for this child and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give this child to the Lord for the whole life of this child will be given over to the Lord. And then in that place the Lord was worshiped.

[00:47:09]And so as we recall this blessing, we pray that for Rachel that may be an experience to to be given to the Lord today and that every single day she will come to know the God who created her and the wonder of that creation as well. And so family, thank you for being here. So what we're going to do, uh mom and dad, we're going to start with you. We're going to give you a chance to make a commitment and this is in line to the prayers you have for this dedication this day. And so all I will be asking is if it's okay, if you agree with what I say, you can simply say we do. Sounds good enough. Uh Pastor Hope, you want to help me carry the mic so that uh in case they say it loud enough, we don't miss it. Is that okay? Awesome. Awesome. So today as parents in keeping with your desire to ground your child in God as parents you acknowledge the sacred duty bestowed on you in raising your daughter for God's kingdom. You also recognize your dependence on God for strength and wisdom to discharge this duty faithfully. Do you now present your daughter Rachel Teresa Gean Meros in dedication to God, seeking his blessings and guidance. If you agree, you can say we do.

[00:48:30]>> We do.

[00:48:31]>> Amen to that. Praise God for that. All right. And now family, we are glad you're here with them. We are so grateful you could come. The prayer we are having is that you may not only stand with them today, but for the days to come. that there will be days they will need you. There will be days that you're going to give a helping hand in different ways. And so for that reason, we want to invite you to make a commitment as well. And if you agree, you can also respond resoundingly by saying, "We do." Sounds good enough. All right. So, for that reason, today you stand with Benjamin and Lisa before God as an important part of their support system in raising their daughter. Do you commit to support Benjamin and Lisa in their God-given task to raise Rachel Teresa Georgan Meros for God's kingdom and glory to support them in good times and in their hour of need and to shape her world view into a Godhonoring one.

[00:49:29]If you agree, please say we do.

[00:49:32]>> We do.

[00:49:33]>> Amen. That's a good choir. Sounded nice.

[00:49:35]>> Awesome. Awesome. uh church family, we always don't take it for granted when parents choose to bring their children here. We are part of the village that helps to raise Rachel for God's kingdom.

[00:49:48]Amen. So that when we get to heaven and we are running in the streets of gold.

[00:49:51]Amen.

[00:49:52]>> And Rachel is running there too. We say praise God. We were part of the journey.

[00:49:56]Is that all right? So for that reason, let's stand with the family at this time to make our commitment to God as well.

[00:50:02]And and so Benjamin and Rachel, I want you to see this is your family. The elders are here representing this family. And I want to encourage you that anytime you come and you find that it's been a difficult night and Rachel decided not to sleep and Rachel is cranky, it's okay. This is your family.

[00:50:20]Amen.

[00:50:22]>> And so if anybody makes noise, come and talk to me or these elders, right?

[00:50:25]They're going to support you to be sure Rachel is in God's house. Amen. So church family to those who will endeavor to support this family as they raise Rachel Teresa Joan Meros for God praying for the parents praying for Rachel and the extent family please respond by saying amen.

[00:50:44]>> Amen.

[00:50:44]>> Amen.

[00:50:46]May God help us to be faithful to that.

[00:50:48]>> Amen.

[00:50:49]>> You know I I I do rejoice that every church I have pastored has had some welcome noise. Is that okay? Welcome noises when the kids cry.

[00:51:02]Uh because I've gone to churches where it's very quiet and when the kids are not there, the future looks not as bright. And so whenever Rachel comes here, she is part of being raised for God's kingdom.

[00:51:14]>> Amen.

[00:51:14]>> And God has blessed us to support in that particular journey. And so at this time, we're going to say a prayer for Rachel. I'm going to have the elders put their hands around the family at this time. I'm going to invite Pastor Hope to pray a prayer of dedication. This family has made several prayer requests. One, they pray that Rachel will grow into a good person. Amen.

[00:51:40]>> Number two, they pray for Rachel to grow in the love of God and to be able to love her neighbor as herself. Amen.

[00:51:48]>> And the third is that let her light so shine among men that they may glorify her father who is in heaven.

[00:51:56]>> Amen.

[00:51:56]>> Are we able to join in that prayer?

[00:51:58]>> So pastor hope at this time as we come close and put our hands on the family, please lead us in a prayer for dedication.

[00:52:04]>> Okay church, let's pray.

[00:52:08]Gracious father, our king, our maker, our redeemer.

[00:52:16]Father, we thank you for he placed you to spare each and every one of us today.

[00:52:24]We thank you because there is none like you from the beginning to the end. You are God. You are the same. Amen. So Lord, we come before you at this hour with a heart of gratitude and with thanksgiving on behalf of the family that have brought their baby before you.

[00:52:51]>> Amen.

[00:52:52]>> Father, we thank you for baby Rachel.

[00:52:54]>> Amen.

[00:52:55]>> We thank you that you continue to bless her, oh Lord.

[00:52:59]>> Yes.

[00:53:01]The parents are asking that you help Rachel to grow so that she will find favor with you and with human beings so that she will grow to be a blessing not only to you but to the world that you have created.

[00:53:20]>> Father, thank you for baby Rachel. Lord, I also want to thank you for their parents, oh Lord, that you give them the strength and the wisdom.

[00:53:28]You are the one that have called us to train up our children >> in your way.

[00:53:35]>> Yes.

[00:53:36]>> Father, please help them to first of all connect with you.

[00:53:40]>> Amen.

[00:53:41]>> So that they will be able to train up Rachel >> in the way that she will also learn how to connect with you and see you as her father in heaven.

[00:53:52]>> Amen.

[00:53:53]>> Father, it's not going to be easy.

[00:53:55]Sometimes it may be challenging. I pray that you give the parents the wisdom, the strength and the fortitude to continue in spite of the challenges. Oh Lord, Father, please all the resources that they need to train up Rachel in such a way that you would like and wish for her to grow. Father, I pray that you provide for them. Also for the extended family, oh Lord, that are standing here in support of the family. I also pray that you through your grace and your mercy, give them the wisdom, the knowledge so that they will care for Rachel as your daughter, oh Lord, that you have entrusted to their care and keeping. Father, also for the church family, help each one of us to be a blessing in the life of Rachel. To be that helping and supporting hand for the parents, oh Lord, as they raise Rachel in your way and for their purpose and for the plan that you have for her life.

[00:55:02]>> Thank you for all that you have done for the family. Thank you for all that you continue to do for them. Our goal and our prayer is that when you come in the class of heaven that you will see that it will be said of all of us including Rachel here at this hour.

[00:55:21]>> Come ye blessed of my fathers >> inherit the kingdom that I have prepared for you.

[00:55:27]>> And Lord we will gladly >> go with you. Amen. so that we will reign with you in a place where there will be no more pain, no more sorrow, no more dying, no more weeping and crying.

[00:55:39]>> Amen.

[00:55:40]>> Father, until then, keep all of us faithful to the call that you have placed on our head in Jesus mighty name we have prayed.

[00:55:49]>> Amen.

[00:55:50]>> Amen.

[00:55:50]>> Amen. Thank you so much.

[00:55:52]>> Church, please be seated. Uh at this time before family and friends you get to sit, we're going to invite our church clerk uh to be able to give a certificate to of dedication and Elder Karen will be able to give a gift to you as a family. I'll hand it first to uh sister Paula to begin for us.

[00:56:12]>> Thank you. Happy Sabbath church. Happy Sabbath family. Welcome to Baltimore White Marsh. And do you guys recognize Lisa? We know her as Shel and her mom Norma. They're members of our well, not members, but they're totally long-standing. So, it's a Rick. Um, let's go have a round of applause.

[00:56:27]Welcome back home, you guys. Um, they're always happy to have you and we're so glad that Benjamin and Lisa, you guys were brought up well where he says, "Train up a child." And you guys have done that. And now we have Cutie Pie Rachel here who will walk in your footsteps. So, um, to commemorate this event, you guys know we do this each time that we have a baby dedication. We have a baby lamb that's symbolic. It's for Rachel, not you, because it's just a token to say God um wants us to come to him for everything.

[00:56:58]He's our shepherd. And as little Oh, look at that. She gave me a cutie smile.

[00:57:02]Um so God wants us to come to him for anything that we have. So we're the little lamb and he's our shepherd just like mommy and daddy will be your shepherd to guide you, to help you grow.

[00:57:12]So that's the symbolism of that. And then we have a dedication, a certificate just to commemorate the event. Rachel Teresa Georgian May Rose was presented to the Lord at the Baltimore White Marsh Church um today's date Sabbath May 30th in the witness of her parents Benjamin and Lisa. Pastor um Elvis read the prayer supplication that um Rachel that sorry um Lisa and Benjamin had for their daughter just like Hannah who um prayed for a son and we know she had Samuel. So for this, they've prayed for this child and God hears us when we pray and answers your supplication. So amen for that and in turn she is here to dedicate um Rachel to the Lord. So we're thanking you for that commitment that's for you and we will continue to pray for you guys to grow up in the way of the Lord.

[00:58:03]Amen.

[00:58:03]>> Amen.

[00:58:04]>> Happy Sabbath everyone. Thank you for being here.

[00:58:06]>> Amen.

[00:58:08]>> Thank you so much family. God bless you.

[00:58:12]>> Keep in prayer.

[00:58:16]Thank you so much. God bless you. Thank you for being here again. We're going to have the elders remain briefly. Thank you so much again. May God bless you.

[00:58:22]Thank you for coming.

[00:58:24]Um so friends, remember anytime you see them, give them a Baltimore white mush greeting. Uh be sure they feel at home in their father's house. Amen.

[00:58:38]Um before we have the elders sit, we we do thank God for another celebration. Amen.

[00:58:49]Um it is a blessing that uh we have this thing called marriage. And when you begin the first year, you praise God, the second year you praise God. When you get to the third year, you are heavenly, thanking God for guiding you, right? Uh now when you get to 16 years, that's no small feat. Amen.

[00:59:07]And we are so blessed that today is the anniversary of Pastor Hope and Sister Oni. Amen.

[00:59:14]>> We praise God for that. Sister Oni, do you mind to join us up here? If you don't mind, please come on up. Uh, please. And you see what the pastor does. You know, that's a good husband.

[00:59:24]He wants to be sure the wife does not fall. I Pastor Hope, I'm going to imitate you because I see my wife is coming. I'm going to go down and do the same thing. Huh? I'm learning from the best. Honey, I can do this. No, no, no.

[00:59:37]Shining. All right, there we go. Amen.

[00:59:39]There we go. Amen.

[00:59:43]We are truly grateful, Pastor Hope and Sister Oni, for the blessing of this day. And it is a day we don't take lightly for you to actually acknowledge the moment to pray and thank God for your marriage. Um, the kids are somewhere here. Amen. Let's praise God for them too. Amen. Please welcome guys.

[01:00:03]Welcome. Welcome. Awesome. So glad that you guys could come. Feel free to stand next to mom and dad at this time.

[01:00:12]Amen. Amen. Praise be to God. This is a blessing. It is a blessing. Uh Pastor Hope, Sister Oni, we are not going to give you any advice. We're just going to pray. Is that okay?

[01:00:25]Uh we we trust that God in God's goodness, he'll be able to guide you and sustain you not only for these 16 years, but many more years to come until Jesus comes again. Something tells me if we move closer this way, it might make it easier for the uh team to be able to get close to you and put their hands on you.

[01:00:44]Elders, can we join in putting our hands on them at this time, please? Let's do that. Elder Morgan has graciously accepted to pray for them at this time.

[01:00:51]So, Elder Morgan, feel free to pray before we say anything else.

[01:00:56]Our loving and most kind and compassionate father in heaven, we come to you this day to celebrate Pastor Hope and sister on uh anniversary.

[01:01:11]Father, you started it all in the Garden of Eden. So, you know what it takes, Lord. And so we ask that you may bless them, that you will deepen their love for you and for each other. Father, we pray also that they will have happiness together and also in their homes in their home. Father, we ask them to grant them wisdom and understanding. We also ask Lord that you grant them the patience that they they know it requires to be happily married. And Father God, we pray that you will continue to watch and care over them. Heal any illnesses that they may have. Lord, strengthen them both physically, mentally, and spiritually. Father, we you're a God who answers prayers. And so we know, Father, with great confidence that you will continue to take care of them and to bless them and to grant them the happiness that they need, oh God.

[01:02:13]Father, we thank you as members that we can celebrate with them. And most of all, Lord, we ask that you will cleanse us from all unrighteousness and our sins and that when you come again, that you will save us in your eternal kingdom.

[01:02:27]This we ask in Jesus's name.

[01:02:29]>> Amen. Amen. Thank you so much.

[01:02:32]>> On behalf of the church family, uh, Sister Mgoy is going to give you some flowers and thank you. Feel free now, elders, we can greet them. Give them a hug of affirmation and just appreciation as we thank God for their lives. Amen.

[01:02:46]>> Amen.

[01:03:11]We can go back to our seats. Thank you so much.

[01:03:39]Happy Sabbath, Baltimore White Mass Church family.

[01:03:43]>> Happy Sabbath.

[01:03:44]>> Welcome to Sabbath day of rest.

[01:03:48]Rest from our labors.

[01:03:51]Let's rest from our cares.

[01:03:55]Why do we work?

[01:03:58]Why do we go to work each day that we are scheduled to work? The straightforward answer is we work to make money.

[01:04:08]Winston Churchill reminded us years ago that we make a living by what we get. He also said we make a life by what we give. I am yet to meet anybody who sets out to go to work, make money and then bring it back as offering.

[01:04:32]Not yet.

[01:04:35]So why do we give offerings?

[01:04:38]We give offerings out of love and through love.

[01:04:45]Malvina Reynolds years ago in her song titled Love is something. So what is love?

[01:04:55]She continued in that song, love is something. If you give it away, you end up having more.

[01:05:04]Love begets love. When we love like Jesus loves, the benefits are abundant.

[01:05:12]When we give like Jesus gives out of love, the blessings return in abundance, running over and as Malachi 3:10 tells us, until we have no room to contain it all.

[01:05:30]In Acts 20:35, we are reminded that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

[01:05:39]And so when we give today's offering which stays in our local church, may we give through love and out of love for our God and through love and out of love for our Baltimore White Mash Church family.

[01:05:59]>> Amen.

[01:06:00]I pray that the copious blessings of heaven be ours as we give in love, gratitude, and without reservation to the cause of Christ in our local church today.

[01:06:14]May the deacons and dictes please come forth.

[01:06:34]And the blessings are falling today.

[01:06:40]There's joy, joy, joy in my heart. And Jesus made everything right.

[01:06:51]I gave him my heart and he gave me a ro of your eyes.

[01:07:03]I'm tasting on heaven.

[01:07:09]That's why I'm so happy today.

[01:07:14]The windows of heaven are open and the blessings are falling today.

[01:07:26]There's joy, joy, joy in my heart.

[01:07:32]Jesus made everything right.

[01:07:38]I gave him my heart and he gave me a word.

[01:07:49]I'm fixing heaven.

[01:07:55]That's why I'm so happy today.

[01:08:04]Shall we stand as it begins to come together?

[01:08:08]>> Praise from all blessings.

[01:08:14]Praise him all.

[01:08:21]Praise him above the earthly host.

[01:08:28]Praise God, son.

[01:08:32]Holy Ghost.

[01:08:48]Blessed Father in heaven, we call upon your name to accept our offerings.

[01:08:56]Sinful beings we are and so our offerings are really nothing without your blessings. Father, call upon your name to bless these offerings and bless the pockets from which they came and keep us focused on the kingdom, Lord, through the blood of Christ Jesus Christ our savior. Amen. Amen.

[01:09:38]At this time, At this time, it's time for prayer. And as customary in our church here, we invite you to come forward if you have a special prayer in your heart. If you have thanksgiving in your heart, if you like to come to the altar, we can please do so at this time as we pray.

[01:10:13]Take our hearts and minds far away from the rest of this world all around to your throne where grace does abound.

[01:10:35]May our lives be transformed by your love.

[01:10:43]May our souls be refreshed from above at this moment.

[01:10:53]Let people everywhere.

[01:10:58]Join us now as we come to you in prayer.

[01:11:12]>> Gracious Father in heaven, we come before you in thanksgiving. We thank you for the many blessings you've bestowed upon us. We thank you for your health.

[01:11:23]We thank you for waking us up this morning. We thank you for all the things that we normally take for granted. We know we can do nothing or do anything without you. So we thank you you for your presence in our lives. We ask a special blessing for our pastor Hope and Anie and the anniversary that they're celebrating today. And again another blessing for Ben and Lisa and little Rachel. We thank you that they were able to come to our church and be dedicated today and the families that are here with them. We ask the blessing for those watching online today and that their hearts may be touched and and know that your love and grace is upon them as well. Lord, I ask the blessing for all those who have come forward for the prayers of their hearts and the quiet prayers that they may have and the preditions that they have for you, dear heavenly father, that you touch and know each and everyone that you watch over them and bless them and let them know that they've been in your presence today. Lord, we ask a special blessing for our young adventurers and the families who aren't with us in church but are at Mount Etna Camp and all the families that have gathered there. Let them have a a beautiful sun is nice today, but let watch over them in their playing and their comingings and their going and as they learn about you in the fresh nature and outdoors, watch over them abundantly. Lord, we pray for all the ministries of our church. We're so thankful for our school season that just closed and our principal and the school year, Lord, and all the young graduates that we've had and the many graduates throughout our congregation that already are seeing that uh great accomplishment that they've done. Ask them to bless them as they go forward in their new endeavors. Lord, we also have a lot of hearts and a lot of people who are maybe ill and are sick. And we ask a special blessing in their lives. Dear heavenly father, we ask you to touch and come close to those who are ailing, who are who maybe couldn't even get up this morning or who um those family members and members of our church who have lost loved ones. You know, there's a a lot of that going on, Lord. And we want you to touch their lives and touch the lives of those families and the family members closer to them that they've lost. Lord, be with us in our circle of influence to others that we know and that we reach out to. Help us to be ambassadors for you, dear heavenly father. Help us to touch someone else's life and let people see in us your grace and your love so that we can love them, too. Lord, we just thank you for our children and the abundance of our church. We are so thankful for them and the many children that we have here. We thank you, Lord, for our families and our loved ones. Not only our children, but our siblings.

[01:14:02]Lord, we pray for our siblings and we pray for our parents. You know, I know children, it's important to pray for your parents and your grandparents and the grandchildren and and um pray for those relatives and loved ones that sometimes we don't always see, but they're on our hearts because we love them. So, we ask you to bless and touch their lives as well, dear heavenly father. Gracious father in heaven, we just thank you for our pastor, Pastor Elvis and his wife Carol. But we ask you a special blessing, anoint Pastor Elvis's lips today as he bring us brings us a message. Let it be a message that our minds and hearts are open to receive that it may touch our lives and help us to be better and understand your love even more. Thank you for all these things that you do in our lives. Dear heavenly father, thank you for always blessing us and guiding us and seeing us through because we know that we've trusting you with all of our hearts and lean not to our own understanding that you will guide our paths and you will direct us and you will lead us to eternal glory. And that's where we want to be ultimately, Lord. Not only on your Sabbath day of rest, but with you in the kingdom when it comes to that great getting up morning. We want to be there with you, Lord. And then see all our faces and smiling people whom we know and whom we love and people who are now sleeping Jesus already. We want to be there together with you, Lord. But we thank you and we love you so much. And Lord, at this moment, I ask a quiet blessing on those who have something to say to you that you do not want to hear my voice.

[01:15:36]Thank you Jesus. Thank you for hearing our quiet prayers. Thank you from hearing the prayers deep in our hearts that only you know that we share only with you. Thank you for blessing us and loving us. Thank you for watching over us and keep us continue to bless us as this service and all those who love the Lord. In his name, let we all say amen.

[01:15:59]Amen. Thank you, Jesus. May our lives be transformed by your love.

[01:16:09]May our souls be refreshed from above.

[01:16:17]at this moment.

[01:16:19]Let people everywhere join us now as we come to you in pray.

[01:16:48]Good morning. Happy Sabbath, church.

[01:16:52]>> Our scripture to reading for today is out of the book of Revelation verses, I'm sorry, chapter 5:es 4-5. And it says, "So I wept much because no one was found worthy to open and read the scroll or to look at. But one of the elders said to me, do not weep. Behold, the lion of tribe of Judah, the root of David, has prevailed to open the scroll and to lose its seven seals.

[01:17:51]Thank you, Brian, for the reading.

[01:17:53]Praise God for his guidance in our service so far. Thank you, Elenise, for leading us out again today. Praise God for that. Um, I want to begin by acknowledging uh one of our brothers, uh, James. I see you're here with us with your family. Welcome.

[01:18:12]Uh thank you to see you. Uh James unfortunately lost his father not too long ago. So he had traveled for the service, but we're grateful to God he came back safely and he's here. James, we continue praying for you and your family at this time. All right. Um today I am going to share just two or three things uh real quick before we get started. A and once again we do have a study guide being passed out. We appreciate for the team helping us to do that. Um I want to highlight um that on two Sabbaths from now that's going to be not the sixth although the sixth is a great Sabbath you know we are having uh an appreciation for fathers on that day.

[01:19:03]All right. Uh so come I I heard from reliable sources the ladies are preparing themselves uh to to revenge.

[01:19:11]Is that acceptable? Uh what the men did.

[01:19:14]They saying we're going to do better. So ladies, we are looking forward for the blessing that you're preparing for the fathers and we pray that it might be an amazing amazing Sabbath. So all the fathers who are here, all the men who are here, don't miss out because the ladies are getting ready. I hear they are cooking a stome. So someone has to take care of it. Hh. So fun to be here that day so we can rejoice for God's blessings on that uh Sabbath. Now the other thing that I want to mention is on the Sabbath of June 13th we are planning to have a medical camp here. And for that medical camp we pray that we're going to have a health Sabbath in the morning. And then after we finish, we're going to go uh uh downstairs and actually we'll have a team here. Some of the action will be happening in the rooms on this floor, some downstairs in the fellowship hall.

[01:20:10]We're going to have some free screening and some free medical consultation. So I want to say this.

[01:20:18]If you want to be a part of it either as a volunteer or to go through the screening or to be able to get consultation, you're welcome to do that.

[01:20:31]And so feel free to reach out. Our health ministry leader is not here with us today, but uh Dr. Ezie is taking a lead on this. But either you can talk to me, pastor Hope, any of the elders, they'll help you. Sister Z I think can also be able to be of help because she has understood this system from before and we can work on that. Now I want to ask you not just to think of you.

[01:20:56]Let's say that you have a friend who needs health screening or consultation.

[01:21:06]Don't keep this to yourself. Invite them to be a part of that as well.

[01:21:11]So, as I say, don't just think, "Oh, I don't need it." If you're good, that's a blessing, but someone who needs it, invite them to be able to register as well. Uh, thank you so much. I see that uh uh some wonderful things are happening back there. So, we'll keep on trusting God for that process to keep on going and and when you get there, Nigel, feel free to go to the camp. So, you will see the announcements on again and again. you see the announcements on the church WhatsApp group and just be sure to screen pre-register so we trying to figure out how many people will be there so we can be able to support in that process. Now, um today, thank you.

[01:21:51]You're making some good progress there.

[01:21:52]Uh keep on going all the way back. All the way back. Thank you. All the way back. I appreciate that. Um All right.

[01:22:00]Keep on going. Keep on going. Keep on going. Yes, that's where we are. All right. So, and if you're ready, Nigel, you can move on to the uh medical camp.

[01:22:09]That's the slide that we'll be on. And uh by God's grace, we'll navigate that space together. Now, something else that I want to praise God for. Is it okay to give thanksgiving?

[01:22:21]>> I realized when I was counting that today, Mark's 52 Sabbaths since Carol and I joined this church family.

[01:22:33]That means it's a full year, huh? Uh because we began here the first Sabbath of June. So if we wait until the first Sabbath of June, that will be 53 Sabbaths. But but up to today, it's 52 Sabbaths. And we are truly thanking God.

[01:22:47]You know, uh you have been very gracious to us. You have been very welcoming to us and we do praise God for you. Uh I also just want to say an extended appreciation for the elders team in how we have spent some time together, talked some things together and you have been a great support. May God continue blessing you and again and again. Uh pastor hope and sister on we thank God for you. You gave us a very good landing to journey along together. Now I'm not saying this to say we're going anywhere. I'm just saying one year is complete. Amen. We are not planning to go anywhere. We're just thanking God for a year. Is that all right? Sometimes when we take a moment to thank God, we can also see how much he has done for us and we praise his name for that. So having said that, you have your study guide. Don't worry, in case this doesn't work, we're going to preach anyway. Is that okay? I will guide you through the study guide.

[01:23:37]You're going to be okay. So let's say a prayer and dive into the message for today. Let us pray.

[01:23:45]Father, as we open your word, we pray that you may speak to us.

[01:23:53]For every family, friend who is in this building, called by your name, open our hearts, open our minds that we may hear your voice.

[01:24:05]But Father, I also pray for those who are watching online, friends who are connecting at this moment and some who will connect later. Lord, I just pray that to each one we may come to the place to join heaven in the simple refrain that no matter what is going on, Jesus is the answer.

[01:24:29]>> Amen.

[01:24:30]>> So give us that understanding and may your name be glorified for we ask in Jesus name. Amen.

[01:24:41]All right.

[01:24:43]So for the message today, I am going to deal with three main points.

[01:24:51]The first will be the throne.

[01:24:55]We're going to take a visit to heaven and see the throne of God. And then when you're there, I pray that you may not just see, but in the process of this sermon, you may hear the voices in heaven. So the first is the throne, the second is the voices, and the last part we are going to hear the singers not just in heaven but on earth. And I pray by the time we are done, even if you don't believe you can sing, at least you'll make a joyful noise to say Jesus is the answer.

[01:25:37]So let's begin with the throne.

[01:25:42]Turn with me if you can the book of Revelation chapter 4. Revelation 4.

[01:25:48]And we're going to focus. So the very first verses you're writing on that study guide is Revelation 4 verse 1 and 2. Revelation 4:1 and 2. Those are the very first ones that you are uh being able to fill out in your study guide. So in revelation 4 I will give you a simple summary and say the book of revelation is a book that we have seen John who is among the last apostles of Jesus to be alive in the island of Patmos where it is said to be in the Aian sea and when he's there he has been going through a time of suffering a time of trial but this faithful servant of God in his moment of desper spiration. The Bible says in Revelation 1 and:e 10 that he was in the Lord's day when the Lord appeared to him. Now I understand according to scripture the Lord's day is the Sabbath. And so I presume it was a Sabbath and he was wondering what's going on and Jesus appears to him in a vision.

[01:26:53]And after Jesus appears to him, Jesus is able to be seen walking among candlestands. And the candlesticks and the candlesticks were representation of the seven churches in a sense. Even though the churches are going through some difficulty, Jesus is walking among them. Praise God. And so even right now when you feel as a church of Jesus, you're going through some difficult time, I want you to remember Jesus is not far. He is walking among his church.

[01:27:25]>> Now when he does this, Jesus has a special message, a special note to every single church.

[01:27:33]And so out of the seven churches, every letter is written. And the book of revelation was written in such a way that it was to be a letter to be read in the congregation. So the person will stand up here and they hear what Jesus is saying to the church of Ephesus.

[01:27:53]Now after he finishes he will talk to the other churches. But I want you to imagine this. Let's translate that to the day today. Let's say Jesus writes a letter to the church of Baltimore White Mar. Are we together up to there? But you see in the same letter he has written a letter to Northeast 7th day Adventist. Are we together? Now the funny thing is when Jesus begins to say the good things about Baltimore White Marsh, we're like oh yes. Then when he says I have a problem about this, we're like oh no. But guess what? When the letter is being read to Northeast, they not only hear about them, they hear about us. And that's how the letter was being read. Every single letter was to be read to every church that they will hear what Jesus is saying to the churches.

[01:28:43]But he says the last message to the church of Laudisier which prophetically speaking we have come to understand it not only represents the literal church of Laudia of the time but prophetically it represents the church in the end times.

[01:29:03]In case you're wondering who we are talking about you, we're talking about you and me. Happy Sabbath. Right? And so there are things Jesus says to us here.

[01:29:12]The challenge with loudia is this. Now I want to go slow on this part in every church there are character traits of all the churches represented.

[01:29:28]That means in the church of loudier there are people who are going to have the faith of Ephesus.

[01:29:36]However, the reason I think this is important is because even in the last day church, not everybody may be loud this year. And to be honest with you, it is amazing. Every so often, uh, Carol and I have had a chance to be among people who strongly journey within the Adventist Muslim relations organization.

[01:30:03]And there are people in places in this world that we are not allowed to speak about them because it will jeopardize their ministry.

[01:30:13]But they are being faithful to God in very difficult situations. So when you meet them, you will not say to them laier. You may need to give them the message of Sana or the message of Philadelphia because that's the place they're going through. However, Laesier is a very interesting dynamic of the church because Laudier is the only church just Jesus has nothing good to say about them. However, Jesus gives the best promise to loudest here. And so, we're going to see that in a few minutes. And so, before the throne scene appears, Jesus speaks to loudest year.

[01:30:52]And so let me begin with the throne scene before I take you back to loudest year. Thank you team for making this work. So this is Revelation 4 verse 1 and 2. After these things I looked and behold a door standing open in heaven.

[01:31:12]And the first voice which I heard was like a trumpet speaking with me saying the following. What did he say? come up here and I will show you things which must take place after this.

[01:31:26]Can you imagine? You're sitting just like this and then all of a sudden this roof of the church and the beautiful roof that we repaired becomes transparent. Are you with me? And you see heaven and there's a door opening where? And you hear a voice saying, "Come up here." What are you going to do? I'm going to say no. Are you going to say yes? That's what I've been waiting for. So John in in in Patmos going through difficult times, he hears a voice that carries him above the problems of this world to heaven. And I pray God may do the same for you today.

[01:32:06]>> That he may transport your mind to the heavenly realms to see what is going on in there. And the Bible says this in verse verse two. It says, "Immediately I was in the spirit and behold a throne set in heaven and one sat on the throne."

[01:32:27]Friends, now I want to do a few things here.

[01:32:32]Number one, uh AI is very funny. When you talk to AI to give you images, it does give you what? Images. So I talked to brother AI.

[01:32:40]I say, "Brother AI, give me a picture about a heavenly throne room." AI drew a picture of the heavenly throne room, a throne and God. I say please take out God because I don't know exactly how he looks like. Is that okay? So, so when you see the throne being empty, it's not because I don't believe God is sitting on the throne. It's because I'm giving you an imagination and I have no clue how God looks like. Now, I may have a few ideas based on scripture, but I have no idea how he looks like. So, I took him off the throne. Is that okay? On this one, not not the one in heaven.

[01:33:10]one.

[01:33:15]Now friends, I don't know about you, but there are many times when I speak to people and they say, "God is on the throne. Don't be afraid." And I think that's a good thing. Are we okay?

[01:33:30]>> But I want you to understand this.

[01:33:34]If you're going to read the book of Revelation, you need to understand the throne is the problem.

[01:33:42]I I I do every so often listen to uh toast masters giving their speeches and and one of them from India had a very good funny beginning. He says, "How can you fix your face when the face is the problem?"

[01:33:57]Oh. Oh. Oh. He flipped it. He said, "How can you face the problem when your face is a what? The problem." And so I began to wonder, "Oh, where is he going with this?" Then it hit me. Sometimes the thing that you're told fix, you can't really deal with it. And when we talk about the throne, we get excited about it. But friends, I want you to know in this context, the throne is the problem.

[01:34:24]Give me a moment to build the case why the throne is the problem. Now once again in your study guide if you see the text in red that's what you're feeling. Are we together? If you see in blue it's likely because the text is already repeated by the very end you're going to see you have text already. They're in blue. So you don't need to write them because you already have them there to get up to there. Good. So to understand how the throne is, I take you back to a prophet called Isaiah.

[01:34:59]The book of Isaiah chapter 6 and verse one, Isaiah is believed to be a man who definitely had some connection with royalty. And there was a king by the name of Uzziah. And when King Uzziah died, the nation was in turmoil because they did not know because the king is dead in these desperate times, what are we going to do? And for that reason, when they were afraid, God in his wisdom gave Isaiah a vision to see that even though the king is dead, God is on the what? On the throne. And for some of us need to remember that that you may sometimes not like your local senator.

[01:35:42]You may not like your president. You may not like your neighbor. But in all these things, God is on the what? On the throne.

[01:35:49]>> And so here he says, "In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne high and lifted up, and the train of his robe filled the temple.

[01:36:08]The reason why this is a problem is because in heaven there seems to be a debate of who is worthy to sit on the what? On the throne.

[01:36:24]Now, here's my question, though. Based on what we just read, who did Isaiah see?

[01:36:35]By the way, it's not a trick question.

[01:36:37]I'm just going back to what we just read. Who did Who did Isaiah see? He saw the Lord on the what?

[01:36:46]Okay, I'm going to mess up with you a little bit. If we get a little bit more specific, who do you think he saw?

[01:36:53]We saw the Father. We have the Son. We have the Holy Spirit. Who do you think you saw?

[01:37:02]I I normally enjoy as your brain is thinking.

[01:37:07]Now, I don't think there's a debate whether the father is on the throne or the father's on the son is on the throne or the holy spirit. I don't think there's a debate there. However, there is something important to understand if we are going to appreciate revelation chapter 4.

[01:37:24]the one who was seen on the throne specifically. Let John tell us, are you ready for this? So the book of John chapter 12 verse 37-41 in that chapter John is writing about various things that Jesus is doing and how the people are responding and people who are rejecting him. And in doing this, John begins to quote Isaiah. But he says this first. It says, "But although he had done so many signs before them, they did not do what?

[01:37:59]Believe him." Paul is there. Have you ever prayed that God give me a sign that I so I can believe in you? Can you see this? It is possible to see a sign and still not to do what? To believe.

[01:38:17]So our faith in God is not based on the signs.

[01:38:23]As a matter of fact, the signs are for the unbelievers.

[01:38:28]For the believers, you have the what?

[01:38:31]>> The word of God.

[01:38:34]And so when they had not believed, Isaiah begins to quote and say, uh, sorry, John begins to quote Isaiah and says that these guys are going to see but not believe. They're going to hear but not to understand. And he is quoting Isaiah chapter 6.

[01:38:52]And in verse 41 he says this. He says these things Isaiah said when he saw his what glory and spoke of him. Who is he referring to? Jesus.

[01:39:08]Isaiah is telling you uh sorry John is telling you when Isaiah looked up and saw the throne he saw who? Jesus on the throne. That is very important to understand because when the fight is about the throne, you need to understand what Jesus did.

[01:39:27]But before I tell you what Jesus did, I want you to see how Isaiah after seeing the throne in Isaiah 6. In the book of Isaiah chapter 14, he begins to demonstrate a fight going on in heaven.

[01:39:43]So Isaiah 14 is the next text you can feel in your study guide. Isaiah 14:12-13.

[01:39:50]Isaiah 14 says this, "How you are fallen from heaven, oh Lucifer, son of the morning. How you are cut down to the ground, you who weaken the what? The nations." Now let me just stop here and say, whenever God blesses you to be promoted in your job, praise God.

[01:40:11]But be very very gentle to the people that you're passing on your way up.

[01:40:15]Happy Sabbath. Uh because life is funny.

[01:40:19]Uh the Lord can use you from up there or he can use you from down here. Is that okay? So if we get up there and we are very boastful, uh the same people we bragged about going up, we're going to meet them on our way down. Okay. So the devil had not learned this lesson. He in his pride, he wanted to be among the highest. And this is what he says in verse 13. He says, "For you have said in your heart, I will ascend into heaven. I will exalt my what?" Throne above the stars of God. I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the what? Of the north.

[01:41:01]The devil looks at this and says, "God is God, but I can be a better God. I can do a better job.

[01:41:09]Friends, have you ever thought you can do a better job than God?

[01:41:15]I want to say this.

[01:41:17]Every so often when God answers your prayers, not the way you thought, you need to be very careful because every so often the human mind is tempted to think, I can do a better job than God.

[01:41:29]And the devil got into that space where he thought, I can be a better God.

[01:41:35]Unfortunately, he came down and so he says, "I can ascend and I want to have the same worship that God is having from the stars of heaven." He desires to be in that place that the angels will sing his name the way they are singing the name of God.

[01:41:53]And Jesus is on the throne.

[01:41:56]And so Jesus considers, shall I keep on sitting here or can I do something different?

[01:42:07]And guess what he did? He did something different. Philippians Paul tells us what Jesus did. Philippians 2 verse 6-7 is the next thing you have in your study guide. Talks about Jesus in Philippians.

[01:42:22]They say who though he was in the form of God did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped but he did what?

[01:42:34]Emptied himself by taking the form of a what? Of a servant being born in the likeness of men.

[01:42:50]Friends, as you listen to me here and friends, as you listen online, I want you to notice something.

[01:43:03]It is possible to cling onto power.

[01:43:07]It's a different thing to have the right to be in power.

[01:43:13]Jesus knew he has a right to be there.

[01:43:18]But when the devil raised questions, there were doubts in people's minds.

[01:43:27]There were doubts in the angel's minds.

[01:43:31]And there was only one way he could prove because the devil wanted to secure the throne by going up.

[01:43:41]Jesus opted to secure the throne by coming down. In God's kingdom, the way up is going down.

[01:43:51]And for that reason, I want you to notice these two points in your study guides. Anytime when I think about God on the throne, I want to think of it in two ways. The first, I want you to think of God on the throne tells me he has what? Authority and power.

[01:44:14]But here's the thing.

[01:44:16]There are many rulers in this world who have authority and power because they have been put on a throne.

[01:44:24]What I think is important, what can make you and me trust God is not just that he is on the throne, but how did he secure the throne?

[01:44:39]Because he secured the throne. And how he did it will reveal to you his character.

[01:44:48]So he did not secured it by saying I'm going to try to go higher. He secured it by humbling himself.

[01:44:56]And that means you can trust him. He can relate to you.

[01:45:06]And so when Jesus has gone through this Jesus comes to a place where now he tells you and me something.

[01:45:18]And this is the promise that he gives to the church of loudest year which is a promise not just for the church of loudest year but for every believer who wants to follow him. Jesus puts it this way. The book of Revelation 3 and verse 21 is the next text in your study guide.

[01:45:39]Jesus says to him who does what?

[01:45:42]Overcomes.

[01:45:43]I will grant to do what? To sit with me on the Okay, let me see if I can help us with this.

[01:46:01]How many of us have been on a plane before? Just asking for a friend. Okay, thank you. Usually on a plane, they're usually three three seats. Is that okay?

[01:46:12]When you get on a plane, how many of us enjoy the middle seat? In the three seats?

[01:46:20]No, we don't.

[01:46:23]Cuz in the middle seat, it's funny. If you feel tired, who do I lean on? If the person to your right or to your left is not your relative, you don't know exactly what to do. If I feel so tired, do I sleep like this or do what? But then there's another problem. There is something called the armrest. Have you found the armrest? And sometimes if you don't position yourself well, it's funny. So people normally begin to fight for the what?

[01:46:51]That's not even the throne of heaven.

[01:46:53]It's an armrest on a plane.

[01:46:56]If if our hearts are not transformed, when Jesus shares without the throne, we're going to have a problem.

[01:47:03]But Jesus begins by transforming our hearts. So that when we sit with him on the throne, we're not fighting for space.

[01:47:12]>> This is why the journey of humility is important because we are not just being prepared to go to heaven. We're being prepared to sit with Jesus in the what?

[01:47:23]And when we're going to sit with Christ, are we going to be okay if Brian sits closer to Jesus than me?

[01:47:32]Am I going to be okay with that?

[01:47:35]If I see Raj on one side of Jesus, do I have to immediately like Judas want to be on the what? The other side. Or am I okay to say I thank God I'm sitting on the what? On the throne. And Jesus says to him who overcomes I will grant to sit with me on the what? On the throne. As I also did what? Overcame and sat down with my father on his what? You know one of the things I always say when I teach about the trinity is this. The thing we miss sometimes is how in the divine entity there is no struggling for power.

[01:48:13]When Christ is sitting with the father on the throne there's no debate who is greater.

[01:48:18]God is on the what? On the throne.

[01:48:23]And so, friends, be prepared to sit with Jesus. As a matter of fact, in the book of Ephesians 2, I didn't put this in our study guide. According to Paul, we are already seated with Christ in the what?

[01:48:34]In the heavenly places.

[01:48:37]So, if we act together down here humbly towards one another, we are reflecting how we are sitting with Jesus where in heaven. If you begin to struggle for power, we are really revealing we are not yet qualified to do what? To sit up there.

[01:48:54]And so these verses in the end of Revelation 3 are actually going to set the pace for the next several chapters. The first thing is whoever overcomes is going to sit with me on the throne. And Jesus said, "Just as I overcame and I sat with my father on the what? On the throne." But if you begin reading Revelation, you'll discover this. Revelation chapter 1, chapter 2, chapter 3, there is no vision of what happened when Jesus went where?

[01:49:27]To heaven. But what Jesus does beginning in chapter 4 and chapter 5, he reveals to John how things happened when he ascended into heaven. And so in that case, this is what happens in Revelation 4. In Revelation 4, we see a throne room of heaven, right? God is on the what? On the throne. Then when you get to Revelation 5, you encounter Christ overcomes and he sits with his father on the what? On the throne. But then I'm going to rush you to chapter 7 first because in chapter 7, we see those who have overcome standing before the what?

[01:50:07]the throne. Now you may wonder why are they not sitting? By the way, the time we see them sitting is in Revelation 20 and verse4.

[01:50:17]Now we can deal with that later. But for right now, if you have a chance to be on earth or to stand before the throne of God, do you have your options ready?

[01:50:25]Yes, I know where I'm going to go for.

[01:50:27]I'd rather stand before God than to sit on this planet. Happy Sabbath.

[01:50:32]But don't worry about it. There's a reason why all this is playing out.

[01:50:35]So the chapter in between the chapter of the four horsemen and the struggles we see is the chapter where the saints are doing the what the overcoming. So in chapter four God is on the throne. In five Christ has overcome and sits on the throne. In chapter six we begin to see how the saints overcome and finally we see them before the what? The throne of God.

[01:51:02]Now why do I spend our time on this?

[01:51:08]Because Jesus has invited us to become overcomers.

[01:51:15]Now how do you overcome?

[01:51:19]Is it by working too hard?

[01:51:23]How does overcoming happens? Don't worry. John tells us how they overcame.

[01:51:28]You run to Revelation 12 and you discover how they overcame. This is the next text in your study guide.

[01:51:34]Revelation 12:11 says, "And they overcame him by the blood of the what?

[01:51:40]Of the lamb and by the word of their testimony."

[01:51:45]When you testify about Jesus, you're overcoming.

[01:51:50]When you depend on Christ and his blood for your righteousness, you are doing what? Overcoming. Overcoming does not happen because I think I'm strong enough. It happens when I believe that God is enough. It doesn't happen when I think my righteousness is good enough.

[01:52:07]It happens when I believe in the blood of Christ to cover my sins.

[01:52:12]And when Jesus does this for me, I cannot help it but tell others what Jesus has done.

[01:52:21]So in the book of Revelation 4, we are seeing so many descriptions to let you know the centerpiece of the fight is the throne. But the place where hope is found is on the throne. This is why you're going to find several phrases like this. There was a throne. Sits on the throne. From the throne, something happens. in the midst of the throne, before the throne, around the throne.

[01:52:49]Everything in Revelation 4 is centered around the throne.

[01:52:55]I remember a friend of mine who said some people are very disappointed that the scientists have discovered the center of the world and it's not them.

[01:53:09]But friends, maybe that's not the biggest struggle because life is not revolving around us.

[01:53:19]Today we here, tomorrow we gone. But if God is no longer on the throne, we have a problem.

[01:53:26]And for that reason, it's a blessing when life is centered around the throne of God. Because that is the center of our hope. Even though that's where the problem began, around the throne.

[01:53:38]And so I just want to encourage you that any time when things are going challenging for you, look up. Look up.

[01:53:47]And how did God secure the throne?

[01:53:52]By the shed blood of Jesus, God has secured the throne for what? Forever. So even as we try to imagine what's going to happen in the future, the one thing that gives us assurance for the unfallen worlds, for the angels in heaven, and for anyone who believes on this planet, the only thing that gives us assurance is how Jesus secured the throne. By his blood, we know he gave his life that we may have a chance to be there. And that gives us a chance to trust him forever.

[01:54:31]So if in the center of the universe, the throne of God, the only solution to the problem was Jesus.

[01:54:40]My question is if Jesus is the answer there, what is your question here?

[01:54:46]What is the question that he cannot answer? But friends, I want to move you closer towards where we're going now.

[01:54:52]The voices in heaven. Listen to this.

[01:54:56]You have this in your study guide. CS Lewis say this. Good philosophy must exist if for no other reason because bad philosophy needs to be answered.

[01:55:13]It's like the village bully who goes around saying things about people and people are longing who's going to tell him. Who's going to tell him?

[01:55:23]Truth be told, even in heaven, there was a guy who decided to begin to say bad things about God and bad things about you and me.

[01:55:36]He he made it a habit. He he practiced to slander the name of God and slander the name of everybody else. And the question comes up, who is going to answer him?

[01:55:47]Who will tell him that he's wrong?

[01:55:52]And here are where the voices in heaven come up. There are five voices that we seem to hear in heaven. I'm going to try to go quick on this part so we can be able to close.

[01:56:04]These voices, although the problem is there, we'll have to be focused on this one question.

[01:56:12]Give me a quick second. The first voice we hear in heaven is a voice of accusation. All right. Sorry, did I go?

[01:56:20]Oh, I I went too too slow there. Sorry, I'm coordinating two screens here. I apologize for that. All right, so this is the what I was trying to make reference to. Good philosophy must exist because bad philosophy needs to be answered. But then I want to make a reference here to say the first voice we hear in heaven that I want you to notice is a voice of accusation. This voice appears before Revelation 4, although we actually hear it in Revelation 12. And so, Revelation 4 and 5 is an answer to what happened in Revelation 12. And so, in Revelation 12: 10, let's hear the voice of the accuser. It says this, "And I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down and who accuses them day and night before our please listen to this. He is known as the accuser of our brothers. By the way, that includes sisters. Happy Sabbath."

[01:57:27]Now listen to me.

[01:57:29]He is known to relentlessly accuse. He's accusing day and what? And night. That means when you wake up in the morning, he has an accusation for you. When you want to sleep in peace, even when you're sleeping, he has an accusation against you. But I want you to know, he's not just accusing you. He's accusing the father on the throne as well. He's accusing Jesus on the throne as well.

[01:57:54]And someone has to respond to him.

[01:57:59]So how does the response begin? The next respond is a voice of proclamation.

[01:58:05]Someone is declaring something. Someone says, "Wait a minute." Now, this is not in your notes, but I want you to notice this. Oh, listen. For those who enjoy Bible study, do do a study on this. Do a study on the midst of the throne. Do a study on what the Bible refers to as the midst of the throne. And you're going to notice this. Lucifer seems to come from the midst of the fire where the throne of God was. But from that place where he was, there are four living creatures in the midst of the throne who are coming up with a response against Lucifer. Listen to what they say. They make the proclamation. Uh sorry, I made a mistake there. I have to look at what they say.

[01:58:51]And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within and day and night of Sabbath. Did you notice that the enemy is accusing day and what? And night. But these guys are also praising and proclaiming day and what. And what do they say? Let's say together. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to do what? To come.

[01:59:20]So as the as the enemy is accusing day and night, these guys are there saying, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty." This is what we know about him.

[01:59:33]And and when they do this, when they do this, there's another voice in heaven that responds and say, "We agree." This is the voice of acclamation. They are proving their says, "You guys are right.

[01:59:46]He is holy. He is holy. He is God Almighty. He was, he is, and he is to come. He's a wonderful God. And these are the voice of the 24 elders.

[01:59:57]These 24 elders in heaven, listen to what they say. They say, "Worthy are you, oh Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power for you created all things and by your will they existed and they were created." You know, I like one writer who made an observation. says when the 24 elders are speaking they're actually refuting Satan that says God you are worthy the accuser is not worthy you created the enemy created nothing by your will they exist but the enemy has contributed nothing friends are you able to give your testimony to to what you know about God because in heaven the angels the the the the four elders, the I mean the four living creatures are saying he's holy. The 24 elders are saying we agree he's the creator and he's what? Worthy.

[02:00:55]But then we had a guest who showed up in heaven. Happy Sabbath. And when he shows up in heaven, he shows up when everything is not rosy. There is a problem. This is why we have a voice of what? Desperation.

[02:01:10]He shows up and he says, "I know in earth we have things going on, but in heaven you have problems too." And so he gets there and he sees in that time that there is a scroll in the right hand of the one who sits on the throne. And the Bible says there is no one in heaven and on earth who could be able to take the scroll and break the seals. And John responds, thank you Brian for reading the scripture reading verse Revelation 5 and verse4. I began to weep loudly because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to look into it. He cries.

[02:01:45]He says, "My goodness, there's a crisis and nobody can fix this."

[02:01:52]Children of Jesus, have you ever had desperate prayers before God?

[02:01:56]>> Oh yes. I want you to notice a few things. It's not just in Revelation 5:4.

[02:02:02]Revelation 6:9 and 10. There's another text there that says, "And when he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the witness they had borne." Now, I want to stop you and say this. This verse does not teach that the dead saints are in heaven. Happy Sabbath. Amen.

[02:02:25]>> However, it is a symbolic language that helps us to convey the meaning that even the saints who have rested, they're not forgotten to God.

[02:02:35]>> That means the prayer of your mother who passed away, your father who passed away, the prayer of your grandmother who passed away, they're still heard before God.

[02:02:47]>> God still hears the desperate cries. And these guys are crying and sing. They cried out in a loud voice, "Oh sovereign Lord, how holy and true, how long before you will judge and avenge our blood on those who dwell on the earth." Did I do anything? Thank you. All right.

[02:03:03]I want to give you another example of this. Luke, the book of Luke, chapter 18, Jesus tells a story and says, "You should always pray and never give up."

[02:03:14]But in that story, Luke 18:1, after he says that, he tells a story about a woman who went to a judge and was always praying until the judge says, "I'm going to give you an answer." And then in verse 7, I want you to see the way Jesus speaks about it. He uses the language which in the future will be used in the book of Revelation. He says this, "And will not God give justice to his elect who cry to him what?

[02:03:39]>> Day and night."

[02:03:42]Friends, are your prayers heard in heaven?

[02:03:46]The only prayers that are not heard is the prayers you have not prayed.

[02:03:50]Pray day and night.

[02:03:54]Because in the heavenly scene, we see that there are 24 elders who are there and part of their job is to carry the saints prayers. Look at this. Revelation 5:8. It says the 24 elders fell down before the lamb, each holding a harp and a golden boughs full of incense which are the prayers of the what? Of the saints.

[02:04:17]But then the last the last the last voice we hear in heaven is a voice of what? Consolation. That even as you cry out, it's going to be okay. It's going to be okay. This is why you hear it in the book of Revelation 5 and verse 5.

[02:04:34]One of the elders said to me, "Weep no more." Like, "Buddy, don't cry. We're in heaven. There is no problem too big that cannot be solved over here. The lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of Jer of David has conquered so that he can open the scroll and it's what? Seven seals."

[02:04:54]Oh, there's a problem in heaven. You know what the elder is saying? Jesus is the what? The answer.

[02:05:02]that even in heaven if there's a problem, Jesus is the what? The answer.

[02:05:08]And so I want us to do an exercise to close. But before we do the exercise to close, because you can notice all the other texts, you already have them in your in your book. I want to invite Sister Ray to be able to sing a song that no matter what we struggle with before the throne of God, you have a perfect plea. Your great high priest, his name is love. Whoever intercedes day and night for you. And for that reason, your name is written on his hands.

[02:05:43]And so when you think art is too filled with messiness, look up because there's a savior before the throne of God for you. Let's sister Ray remind us this before we get to read the last verses and close.

[02:06:31]Be full of throne of God above.

[02:06:36]I have a strong and perfect bleed, a great high priest whose name is love.

[02:06:46]Whoever lives and pleads for me.

[02:06:52]My name is Raven on his hand. My name is written on his heart.

[02:07:02]I know that while it stands, no tongue can bits me then depart.

[02:07:12]No tongue can bids me then depart.

[02:07:20]When Satan tempts me to despair and tells me of the guilt within, of what I look and see him there, who made an end to all my sin because the sinless Savior died, my sinful soul is counted.

[02:07:50]set free.

[02:07:52]For God the justice satisfied to look on him and pardon me to look on him and pardon me.

[02:08:10]Behold him there, the risen lamb, my perfect spotless righteousness, the great unchange of all. I am the king of glory and of grace. One with himself.

[02:08:33]I cannot die. My soul is purchased by his blood. My life is healed with Christ on high. With Christ my savior and my God. with Christ my savior and my God.

[02:09:03]>> Amen.

[02:09:08]To close, I want to invite you to participate in something. Is that okay?

[02:09:13]We're going to have four of the guys who volunteer to join me here. Let's be sure they have microphones. Uh because the story in heaven, I don't want you to miss this.

[02:09:24]You know, sometimes in the world we live, you're waiting for the big voices to begin. But I want you to know that sometimes not everybody will acknowledge Jesus first right away. But you cannot miss to begin acknowledging acknowledging him first and see what God does with it. So for the purpose of this example, I'm going to begin to share with you how this responses happen in heaven. And so here's what begins. Uh if this one works, let's move on to the next slide. For some reason, it's saying no. Okay, there we go.

[02:09:59]The very first time it's not everybody who begins to respond in heaven. It's only the four living creatures who begin to respond. It's like the four living creatures are the ones who took over the singing in heaven when the Lucifer got fired. Are we together? So when the singing begins, it seems to begin with them. And so for the purpose of illustration, I asked at least some of these members of our team to begin to read the words that were spoken in heaven by the four living creatures.

[02:10:28]Now, we know their names. We know that they are human. But for the purpose of this example, let's hear from them what the four living creatures say. So, guys, do this for me. Just read with the loud.

[02:10:40]Don't sing this. Just read it with the loudest voice you can these words. Let's go together. Just go for it.

[02:10:46]>> Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty who was and is and is to come.

[02:10:56]>> Amen. Now, when they finished singing, we had 24 elders who did what?

[02:11:03]Responded. Microphones are all here. I need 24 volunteers. Could I get 24 volunteers? Just feel free to stand. I'm going to have you read the next part.

[02:11:11]Just There we go. And 1 2 3 I'm looking for 24. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Can we get 24 17 18 19 20 21 22 22 23 and 24. Amen. All right, guys. Now, in response to what the four living creatures say, the 24 elders say this.

[02:11:44]Please read it with the loudest voice you can, the words on the screen. Let's go.

[02:11:50]>> Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created. Thank you so much. Now don't sit. Don't sit. Keep on standing because the choir does not end there. After the four living creatures begin all the 24 elders respond. But then we have a crisis in heaven. And when the crisis shows up, you know what happens when Jesus solved the the puzzle. The 24 elders and the four living creatures now sing in unison. Are we together up to there? So now we're going to read the next one for the 24 elders and the four living creatures. Guys, let's go. Give it your best. Let's go. Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open it seals. For you were slain, and by your blood you ransom people for God. from every tribe and language and people and nation and you have made them a kingdom and priest to our God and they shall reign on earth.

[02:13:08]>> Amen. Please keep standing because the song is not over. After the 24 elders and the four and the four living creatures sing together, guess who comes in?

[02:13:18]There are 10 thousands times 10 thousands of angels who are able to sing. Now, I don't think we're going to get 10,000 here. So, we're going to have everybody stand. Is that okay? Please, let's stand together because now the angels are joining in. We have to sing this song together. So, guys, the angels are joining and the 24 elders and the four living creatures. Guys, let's give it our best. Let's go. What the Is the lamb who was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing. Amen. The song is not over yet. When they finish singing, the angels are singing and now the 24 elders are singing. The four living creatures are singing. Now the Bible says, "Every creature on heaven and on earth, guess what they do? They sing. Now the problem we have is I don't know if some of them are here. So this becomes the assignment when you go home be sure they sing this song too but what song do they sing? So if you are on live stream please sing with us. Let's go together. Let's go. To him who sits on the throne and to the lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever.

[02:14:40]>> Guess what? Amen. And that is what the living elders say. What do they say?

[02:14:44]Amen.

[02:14:47]>> So here's my point. They have come to the point to realize Jesus is the answer.

[02:14:53]>> So what is your question?

[02:14:56]Sometimes we get lost in what's going on in the world. And God says, "Come up here. Let me show you what's going on.

[02:15:04]Let me give you a better idea of how things go. Come up here." You may have been going through a time of debt and you're wondering, "Where do I get the resources?" I want to remind you Jesus paid the greatest debt ever was >> and I believe he can do something for your life too. Some of us are thinking we're going through family situations that we don't know what to do. But Jesus reminds us this that he solved the biggest gap in relationship between divinity and humanity. And if he fixed that he can fix your home too.

[02:15:34]>> Some of us are wondering I have had many losses. It's true. But the answer at the very end is Jesus who conquered death.

[02:15:41]So today Jesus is the answer. But what is your question?

[02:15:47]>> What is your question? Because whatever question you have, Jesus is the answer.

[02:15:52]>> In the 1900s later, actually um a man by the name of Andre Crouch was involved in a ministry of helping drug addicts recover. And when he began to see each one of them coming to Christ, he wrote a song that we're going to sing together to close and then Elder Denise will give us a benediction. And the song simply says, "Jesus is the answer for the world today." Praise to him, please guide us through Jesus is the answer for the world today.

[02:16:44]Lord, Jesus is the way.

[02:16:49]Jesus is the answer for the world today.

[02:16:56]above and there's no other.

[02:17:00]Jesus is the way.

[02:17:04]Jesus is the answer for the world today above him. There's no other.

[02:17:15]Jesus is the way.

[02:17:18]Jesus is the answer for the world today above there no other Jesus is the way if you ask the question is all of your mind traces peace you can find reflection actions of the old past. They seem to miss you every day.

[02:17:55]There's one thing I know for sure that Jesus is the way.

[02:18:02]Jesus is the answer for the world today above and there's no other.

[02:18:13]Jesus is the way.

[02:18:17]Jesus is the answer for the world today.

[02:18:24]Above him there's no other.

[02:18:28]Jesus is the way.

[02:18:31]I look at mountains that you I know that your skies are dark. You think the sun won't shine in case that you don't know that the word of God is true and everything that he's promised he will do for you.

[02:19:00]Jesus is the answer for the world today.

[02:19:08]And there's no other.

[02:19:11]Jesus is the way.

[02:19:15]Jesus is the answer for the world today.

[02:19:22]Above him there's no other.

[02:19:26]Jesus is the way.

[02:19:31]Jesus is the answer for the world's name.

[02:19:38]Above no.

[02:19:42]Jesus is the way.

[02:19:46]Jesus is the answer.

[02:19:49]You're the wor Jesus is the way.

[02:20:01]This is the answer for the world today.

[02:20:11]Jesus is the way.

[02:20:15]Jesus is the answer for the world today.

[02:20:23]There's no Jesus is the way.

[02:20:29]Jesus is the way.

[02:20:33]Jesus is the way.

[02:20:37]Jesus is the way.

[02:20:40]Jesus is the way.

[02:20:44]Jesus is the way.

[02:20:48]Jesus is the way.

[02:21:00]Jesus is the way.

[02:21:04]>> Please bow your heads with me.

[02:21:08]Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Jesus, for you are the answer. You are the way, the truth, and the light. And we are so blessed to have you there for us. Thank you today for this message, dear heavenly father. Thank you for filling our hearts with the knowledge of knowing that you're there. And please, Lord, know now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you faultless before the presence of his joy of his glory with exceedingly joy. To God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen. Amen.

[02:21:52]>> Amen. God bless you and happy Sabbath.

[02:21:54]You may be seated.

[02:21:58]>> There is a men's ministry meeting in the fellowship hall and we also have uh some extra bread from the food distribution.

[02:22:07]So that's also in in the fellowship hall. The dates are good. So just wanted to let you know.

[02:22:14]I I I see you are leaving the sanctuary.

[02:22:16]We have some deacons and um elder that will be at the door. Please take some flyers for the medical camp and share with somebody that may benefit from it.

[02:22:28]Please take as many as you like because we have enough. Thank you so much.

[02:22:41]Soon and very soon we are going to see the king. Soon. Soon and very soon we are going to see the king. Soon very soon and very soon we are going to see the king.

[02:23:05]Hallelu.

[02:23:07]Hallelu.

[02:23:09]We're going to see the king.

[02:23:13]Soon and very soon we are going to see the king. Hallelujah. Soon and very soon we are going to see the king. Soon you very soon and very soon we are going to see the king.

[02:23:36]Hallelu.

[02:23:38]Hallelu.

[02:23:39]We're going to see the king.