Stand!

The church today is experiencing great tribulation. With scandals rocking its foundations, membership numbers shrinking, worship attendance sagging, basic doctrines being questioned, and its impact on our culture disappearing, we have to wonder what is wrong. In this week’s sermon, we will look to the Apostle Paul for encouragement and answers.

Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.

Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak.

Hymns
“Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus”
“Lead On, O King Eternal”
“Onward, Christian Soldiers”

Renewing Reflections
It is our prayer that Renewing Reflections will be a blessing in your life this coming week. This quote is taken from the sermon “Really Old Hymns: God Is With Us“ delivered on Christian Crusaders August 2, 2009.
Emmanuel, God with us, who has done battle with the power of sin, death and the devil, staked his claim. On the cross he experienced the exact opposite of this psalm (46) – God not with him – so that we could have a restored relationship with God and his promise. God raised him on the third day. Listen to Emmanuel’s promise: “Lo, I am with you always, till the end of time.” Why is he with us? To be our refuge as we withstand the attacks. Attacks from whom? Peter knew it: “Like a roaring lion your adversary - the devil - prowls around looking for someone to devour (I Peter 5:8).

Christian Crusaders’ Newsletter
The newest issue of Christian Crusaders' quarterly print newsletter, The Crusader, will be out soon! Its theme is on anger. This newsletter features an article by Rev. Larsen, as well as news about the ministry and thoughts on faith from other members of the staff. Call our office at 1-888-My Faith or email info@christiancrusaders.org to join the mailing list and receive this special publication.

On the Light Side
Leading Papers’ Coverage of the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Variety: “Custer Closes Out of Town”
Pravda: “Big Red Victory”
Sports Illustrated: “Indians Win Series”
Women's Wear Daily: “Feathers Make Comeback”
Reader's Digest: “Sitting Bull Reveals New Cure for Dandruff”
The Washington Post: “Custer Loses Rural Vote”