WEBVTT 00:00:00.200 --> 00:00:08.080 We're going to begin our worship today singing in Psalm 107, Psalm 107, and we're singing 00:00:08.080 --> 00:00:15.240 from the Sing Psalms Version, page 143, verses 1 to 9. 00:00:17.960 --> 00:00:24.379 O thank the Lord, for He is good, His love endures always. Let those whom God redeemed 00:00:24.379 --> 00:00:29.539 say this, those rescued by His grace. He saved them from their enemies and brought 00:00:29.539 --> 00:00:36.320 them from the lands, from east and west, from north and south, safe from oppressing hands. 00:00:36.719 --> 00:00:43.079 We're singing verses 1 to 9, Psalm 107, page 143, and we're standing to sing. 00:00:43.079 --> 00:00:59.519 O thank the Lord, for He is good, His love endures always. Let those whom God 00:00:59.520 --> 00:01:15.520 God redeemed say this, those rescued by His grace. He saved them from their enemies and brought 00:01:15.519 --> 00:01:32.519 them from the land, from east and west, from north and south, safe from oppressing hands. 00:01:32.519 --> 00:01:53.519 Come on dirt in the desert ways, not finding any way, to reach a city where they might obtain 00:01:53.519 --> 00:02:07.000 enough place to stay. Where life and strength were having passed, in partial 00:02:07.000 --> 00:02:22.000 and emptiness. Then in despair they sought the Lord, who saved them from distress. 00:02:22.000 --> 00:02:48.000 straight was the path He led them on, a city to attain. So for the Lord's unfailing love, let them give thanks again. 00:02:48.000 --> 00:02:50.000 the Lord's unfailing love, let them give thanks again. 00:02:50.000 --> 00:03:09.000 And for the awesome deeds of power, which He for them achieves, for hungry souls He fills with good, the 00:03:09.000 --> 00:03:14.000 thirsty He relieves. 00:03:14.000 --> 00:03:27.000 Well, let's pray together now. We're praying a short prayer just now, mainly for the children, and we'll have the main prayer afterwards. 00:03:27.000 --> 00:03:31.000 Let's call upon the Lord in prayer. 00:03:31.000 --> 00:03:41.000 Lord, our gracious God, we give thanks today that we gather here in Your name, that we do so willingly and freely, and that we take delight in doing so. 00:03:41.000 --> 00:03:51.000 We thank You today, O Lord, that we are gathered together. We know from Your Word how important it is for Your people to be gathered together to worship You. 00:03:51.000 --> 00:04:08.000 And we give thanks for this occasion, and we give thanks for this day. We pray that You would help us to maintain the Lord's day, as a day that is separate and kept for worship, and for thinking upon Yourself and upon Your salvation, and upon Your creation as we see it around us. 00:04:08.000 --> 00:04:33.000 Lord, we thank You, O Lord, we thank You, O Lord, as they come to learn more of Your gospel, of the truth of Your Word, that it may be truly blessed to them, and that they may grow up to know more and more of You through this Word that You have given us. 00:04:33.000 --> 00:04:38.000 Help them, Lord, we pray, as they interact with the message of the gospel today. 00:04:38.000 --> 00:04:40.000 Protect them in the world, we pray. 00:04:40.000 --> 00:04:45.000 Give them to be shielded from the many harmful things that exist in our world. 00:04:45.000 --> 00:04:52.000 And give them, Lord, we pray, to pray for themselves, for Your own guidance and protection in life. 00:04:52.000 --> 00:05:02.000 And now go before us, we pray, and help us as we engage in worship, that we may do so depending upon Your Holy Spirit to guide us into Your truth. 00:05:02.000 --> 00:05:07.000 Receive our thanks and forgive our sins, for Jesus' sake. 00:05:07.000 --> 00:05:08.000 Amen. 00:05:08.000 --> 00:05:09.000 Amen. 00:05:09.000 --> 00:05:10.000 Amen. 00:05:10.000 --> 00:05:11.000 Amen. 00:05:11.000 --> 00:05:12.000 Okay, children. 00:05:12.000 --> 00:05:23.000 In the main sermon today, we're going to be thinking of a city, because God's Word describes the church as God's city. 00:05:23.000 --> 00:05:27.000 The people of God are citizens of that city. 00:05:27.000 --> 00:05:34.000 But I want to tell you about another city mentioned in the Bible, and that's in Genesis chapter 11. 00:05:34.000 --> 00:05:40.060 Because in Genesis chapter 11, we read about an attempt to build a city or to build a tower, 00:05:40.839 --> 00:05:44.360 and the top of it was going to reach right up into the heavens. 00:05:45.319 --> 00:05:48.540 It came to be known as the Tower of Babel. 00:05:48.839 --> 00:05:51.819 Babel means confusion or scattering. 00:05:52.000 --> 00:05:54.500 Let me just read these words in Genesis 11. 00:05:54.980 --> 00:05:58.079 Here were the people of that time a long, long time ago. 00:05:58.759 --> 00:06:00.560 And when they came to a certain place, they said, 00:06:00.560 --> 00:06:04.019 Come, let us make bricks, and we'll burn them thoroughly. 00:06:04.579 --> 00:06:05.459 So they had bricks. 00:06:06.160 --> 00:06:06.720 And then they said, 00:06:06.800 --> 00:06:12.199 Come, let us build ourselves a city and a tower with its top in the heavens. 00:06:12.740 --> 00:06:20.259 And let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be dispersed and scattered over the face of the whole earth. 00:06:20.920 --> 00:06:26.100 They were afraid of being scattered, separated from each other over the whole earth. 00:06:26.100 --> 00:06:32.820 And so they tried to make a place where they would be safe and where that wouldn't happen. 00:06:33.820 --> 00:06:43.260 And it's a passage that tells us about an attempt to produce safety without God. 00:06:44.080 --> 00:06:51.460 In fact, it tells us something important there, that the Lord came down to see the city that they were attempting to build, 00:06:51.459 --> 00:06:56.899 and the very thing that they were afraid of and they were trying to prevent, the Lord actually caused. 00:06:57.539 --> 00:06:59.339 He gave them all sorts of different languages. 00:06:59.919 --> 00:07:04.240 They couldn't understand each other, so they were scattered abroad on the face of the earth. 00:07:05.019 --> 00:07:07.139 Now, that tells us something very important today. 00:07:08.240 --> 00:07:09.799 We need safety. 00:07:10.120 --> 00:07:11.000 We need security. 00:07:11.359 --> 00:07:12.579 We need salvation. 00:07:12.579 --> 00:07:16.779 But we can't have that without God. 00:07:17.500 --> 00:07:25.639 If we try and build salvation for ourselves, that's going to end in failure and disaster. 00:07:26.620 --> 00:07:30.979 Because here they were trying to build this city with the top of it reaching up to heaven 00:07:30.979 --> 00:07:36.019 in order to try and make for themselves a place of safety. 00:07:36.019 --> 00:07:43.359 Now, the Bible tells us that our place of safety, of salvation, is in Jesus. 00:07:44.379 --> 00:07:46.399 Jesus is the one. 00:07:47.039 --> 00:07:51.120 When we come to believe in Him, to trust in Him, to give our lives to Him, 00:07:51.680 --> 00:07:53.459 then we are within safety. 00:07:54.039 --> 00:07:55.159 We have salvation. 00:07:56.099 --> 00:07:57.799 No one can take that away from us. 00:07:58.199 --> 00:08:03.419 And then whatever happens, we know that that's going to be always true of us, 00:08:03.479 --> 00:08:05.819 that we will be safe in Jesus. 00:08:06.879 --> 00:08:10.659 So today, for the adults and for myself and for yourselves, 00:08:11.279 --> 00:08:19.359 we are here to build up our lives not by forgetting God, but by actually trusting in God. 00:08:19.919 --> 00:08:27.339 Because when we try and build up without God, inevitably we're going to fail and it'll bring disaster. 00:08:27.899 --> 00:08:32.340 And we will fail in a way that will actually not have salvation, 00:08:32.340 --> 00:08:35.980 but have what the Bible calls the opposite of that. 00:08:36.019 --> 00:08:37.199 We will be lost. 00:08:37.879 --> 00:08:39.360 We will not be saved. 00:08:40.019 --> 00:08:48.779 And so today, you have this huge advantage or privilege to know about Jesus, to learn about Jesus, 00:08:48.779 --> 00:09:01.860 but it's so that you can come to have God in your life and not leave God behind and build up your lives with God at the center and foundation of your life. 00:09:01.860 --> 00:09:04.860 So we're going to say the Lord's Prayer then. 00:09:04.860 --> 00:09:12.279 And then we'll actually have another singing after that when you go through to your classes. 00:09:12.720 --> 00:09:14.399 So let's say the Lord's Prayer together. 00:09:14.399 --> 00:09:18.639 Our Father, our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. 00:09:19.159 --> 00:09:20.259 Thy kingdom come. 00:09:20.819 --> 00:09:23.459 Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 00:09:23.959 --> 00:09:30.000 Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. 00:09:30.419 --> 00:09:34.399 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. 00:09:34.399 --> 00:09:39.019 For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. 00:09:39.600 --> 00:09:40.139 Amen. 00:09:41.939 --> 00:09:43.019 We're going to sing again. 00:09:43.079 --> 00:09:45.600 This time we're singing from Psalm 106. 00:09:46.299 --> 00:09:48.799 This is in the Scottish Psalter, Psalm 106. 00:09:48.799 --> 00:10:18.779 Psalm 106. 00:10:18.799 --> 00:10:20.379 Again, we're standing to sing. 00:10:20.379 --> 00:10:20.419 Amen. 00:10:48.799 --> 00:11:05.859 God's mighty works who can express the show for all this great. 00:11:05.860 --> 00:11:20.320 Blessed are they that judgment keep, and justly do always. 00:11:20.320 --> 00:11:35.840 Remember me, Lord, with that love which I to thine does pay. 00:11:35.860 --> 00:11:50.860 With thy salvation, O my God, to visit me draw near. 00:11:50.860 --> 00:12:07.300 That I thy chosen's good mercy, and in their joy rejoice. 00:12:07.299 --> 00:12:23.139 And live with thy new merit as triumph with cheerful voice. 00:12:23.139 --> 00:12:28.199 I'm going to read now from God's word in the book of Psalms. 00:12:29.259 --> 00:12:33.699 Two Psalms, firstly Psalm 48, and then Psalm 87. 00:12:33.700 --> 00:12:43.700 First of all, Psalm 48. 00:12:45.700 --> 00:12:51.300 Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God. 00:12:52.080 --> 00:12:56.320 His holy mountain, beautiful in elevation, is the joy of all the earth. 00:12:56.320 --> 00:13:01.580 Mount Zion in the far north, the city of the great king, with her citadels. 00:13:01.900 --> 00:13:04.879 God has made himself known as a fortress. 00:13:06.000 --> 00:13:08.900 For behold, the kings assembled and came on together. 00:13:09.700 --> 00:13:11.620 As soon as they saw it, they were astounded. 00:13:11.960 --> 00:13:12.740 They were in panic. 00:13:13.379 --> 00:13:14.379 They took to flight. 00:13:15.280 --> 00:13:18.980 Trembling took hold of them there, anguish as of a woman in labor. 00:13:18.980 --> 00:13:23.200 By the east wind, you shattered the ships of Tarshish. 00:13:23.879 --> 00:13:25.620 As we have heard, so have we seen. 00:13:26.200 --> 00:13:28.320 In the city of the Lord of hosts. 00:13:28.940 --> 00:13:32.899 In the city of our God, which God will establish forever. 00:13:33.980 --> 00:13:38.300 We have thought on your steadfast love, O God, in the midst of your temple. 00:13:39.039 --> 00:13:43.379 As your name, O God, so your praise reaches to the ends of the earth. 00:13:44.139 --> 00:13:46.240 Your right hand is filled with righteousness. 00:13:46.240 --> 00:13:48.720 Let Mount Zion be glad. 00:13:49.399 --> 00:13:52.980 Let the daughters of Judah rejoice because of your judgments. 00:13:54.139 --> 00:13:55.180 Walk about Zion. 00:13:55.740 --> 00:13:56.419 Go round her. 00:13:57.060 --> 00:13:57.940 Number her towers. 00:13:58.100 --> 00:13:59.580 Consider well her ramparts. 00:14:00.159 --> 00:14:01.480 Go through her citadels. 00:14:02.180 --> 00:14:05.759 That you may tell the next generation that this is God. 00:14:06.299 --> 00:14:08.159 Our God forever and ever. 00:14:08.980 --> 00:14:11.060 He will guide us forever. 00:14:11.059 --> 00:14:17.959 And if we turn to Psalm 87, we'll read through that short psalm as well. 00:14:18.059 --> 00:14:18.739 Psalm 87. 00:14:18.740 --> 00:14:19.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:19.740 --> 00:14:20.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:20.740 --> 00:14:21.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:21.740 --> 00:14:22.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:22.740 --> 00:14:23.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:23.740 --> 00:14:24.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:24.740 --> 00:14:25.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:25.740 --> 00:14:26.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:26.740 --> 00:14:27.740 Psalm 87. 00:14:27.740 --> 00:14:30.039 On the holy mount stands the city he founded. 00:14:30.039 --> 00:14:34.759 The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwelling places of Jacob. 00:14:34.759 --> 00:14:39.000 Glorious things of you are spoken, O city of God. 00:14:39.000 --> 00:14:42.919 Among those who know me, I will mention Rahab and Babylon. 00:14:42.919 --> 00:14:43.919 Amen. 00:14:43.919 --> 00:14:46.039 Behold Philistia and Tyre with Cush. 00:14:46.759 --> 00:14:48.599 This one was born there, they say. 00:14:49.419 --> 00:14:53.719 And of Zion it shall be said, this one and that one were born in her. 00:14:54.120 --> 00:14:56.559 For the Most High himself will establish her. 00:14:57.419 --> 00:15:03.360 The Lord records as he registers the people, this one was born there. 00:15:04.559 --> 00:15:05.039 Amen. 00:15:05.139 --> 00:15:07.959 And may God bless to us these readings of his word. 00:15:08.199 --> 00:15:09.740 Let's again join together in prayer. 00:15:12.919 --> 00:15:17.059 We give thanks, O Lord our God, as we call upon your name again. 00:15:17.199 --> 00:15:20.519 We give thanks that we belong to your church in this world. 00:15:21.579 --> 00:15:26.639 We give thanks for the teaching of your word in regard to belonging to your own believing people. 00:15:27.519 --> 00:15:35.419 We give thanks today for the many privileges that are ours and for the many promises that your word sets out for those who trust in you. 00:15:36.479 --> 00:15:39.860 We thank you today for the opportunity again to worship you together. 00:15:39.860 --> 00:15:46.820 And we thank you for the way in which we are able to do so, using the resources that you have given us in your word. 00:15:47.580 --> 00:15:50.120 And to call upon you in prayer and to sing your praises. 00:15:50.899 --> 00:15:52.300 And to have your word expounded. 00:15:52.460 --> 00:15:56.560 Lord, it is our great privilege to be gathered together here today again. 00:15:57.480 --> 00:16:03.460 Help us, we pray, to avail ourselves of this opportunity to make maximum use of it. 00:16:03.460 --> 00:16:09.200 We thank you, Lord, for the way that you continue to bless us from week to week. 00:16:09.900 --> 00:16:13.139 And for your patience with us and your long-suffering toward us. 00:16:13.840 --> 00:16:16.840 For the way that you repeatedly bring us before your word. 00:16:17.340 --> 00:16:20.300 And bring your word to our minds and laid upon our hearts. 00:16:21.360 --> 00:16:26.019 Lord, we come today confessing that we are unworthy of the least of your mercies. 00:16:26.019 --> 00:16:28.840 We come confessing our own sins. 00:16:29.600 --> 00:16:32.000 Confessing our many failures and shortcomings. 00:16:32.939 --> 00:16:35.379 The many ways in which we know we sin against you. 00:16:35.960 --> 00:16:37.939 In our very thoughts we sin against you. 00:16:38.639 --> 00:16:42.460 We sin against you in the words that we speak from time to time. 00:16:42.919 --> 00:16:48.639 In a way that is ill-advised and not in accord with righteousness and truth. 00:16:49.480 --> 00:16:52.480 We sin against you in our behavior, in our relationships. 00:16:52.480 --> 00:16:58.899 We, Lord, don't have the ability to number the many sins that we commit against you. 00:16:59.500 --> 00:17:02.120 As each day and each week and each year goes by. 00:17:02.840 --> 00:17:13.059 But we give thanks today that your mercy far exceeds our sins in their greatness or in their number. 00:17:13.259 --> 00:17:20.140 We thank you today that your word teaches us that your justice and your mercy reach the clouds. 00:17:20.140 --> 00:17:25.740 That they are greater than anything that we ourselves may engage in. 00:17:26.600 --> 00:17:28.259 We thank you today for your mercy. 00:17:29.000 --> 00:17:31.440 We thank you for your forgiveness of our sins. 00:17:32.259 --> 00:17:34.220 For your cleansing by your Holy Spirit. 00:17:34.380 --> 00:17:37.440 By your truth of our hearts and lives. 00:17:38.060 --> 00:17:40.060 From sin and from the effects of sin. 00:17:40.940 --> 00:17:47.360 Help us, we pray, always to come before you conscious that you are the one who calls us into your presence. 00:17:47.359 --> 00:17:49.859 That with you there is forgiveness. 00:17:50.299 --> 00:17:51.799 So that you may be feared. 00:17:52.159 --> 00:17:53.659 That we may revere you. 00:17:53.779 --> 00:17:54.779 That we may honor you. 00:17:55.419 --> 00:17:58.579 And that we may pay homage to you at all times. 00:17:59.439 --> 00:18:02.759 Bless us, we pray today, as a people, as a congregation. 00:18:03.699 --> 00:18:08.279 Oh, Lord, we ask that you would give us today your blessing through your Spirit. 00:18:08.279 --> 00:18:10.119 To be with us as we gather. 00:18:10.599 --> 00:18:12.879 And with those who are unable to gather with us physically. 00:18:13.099 --> 00:18:14.139 Bless them where they are. 00:18:14.799 --> 00:18:18.000 We ask that you would bless the means that you have given us, Lord. 00:18:18.180 --> 00:18:21.019 Of people in their homes. 00:18:21.399 --> 00:18:23.119 Being able to share in the services. 00:18:23.960 --> 00:18:29.039 And we thank you for those who simply cannot be with us through illness of different kinds. 00:18:29.859 --> 00:18:32.000 And, Lord, we ask your blessing for them today. 00:18:32.000 --> 00:18:37.740 And as your gospel reaches them, we pray that it may truly be precious once again to them. 00:18:38.559 --> 00:18:40.400 We pray for those who are ill at this time. 00:18:41.059 --> 00:18:43.059 Remember them, we pray, O Lord, in hospital. 00:18:43.700 --> 00:18:45.539 Those at home or those in care homes. 00:18:46.220 --> 00:18:50.680 We commit them to you and ask that the care they receive may be blessed to them. 00:18:51.160 --> 00:18:54.079 And that we may all be grateful and thankful to you. 00:18:54.480 --> 00:18:58.740 For your continuing goodness, Lord, in providing us with so many resources. 00:18:58.740 --> 00:19:07.740 We pray today also for those of our number, O Lord, who are not here and not watching online. 00:19:08.120 --> 00:19:13.620 We pray for those damaged by the COVID pandemic particularly. 00:19:14.500 --> 00:19:18.660 Those who have slipped away from following you, from confessing you, 00:19:19.359 --> 00:19:22.740 from being meaningfully part of your gathered church. 00:19:22.940 --> 00:19:24.579 Lord, we pray for them today. 00:19:25.140 --> 00:19:26.900 We ask that you would recover them. 00:19:26.900 --> 00:19:29.840 We pray that your grace, Lord, will be with them. 00:19:30.360 --> 00:19:35.120 So as to shield them, to protect them, but to bring them back into your ways, O Lord. 00:19:35.960 --> 00:19:40.360 We pray for those who have difficulties of their own health as well today. 00:19:41.040 --> 00:19:43.500 Remember those who have issues of mental health. 00:19:44.100 --> 00:19:46.820 We commit them to you, Lord, and ask that you'd bless them. 00:19:47.540 --> 00:19:49.900 We pray that your word may be precious to them. 00:19:50.420 --> 00:19:53.460 And we ask that they may draw their strength from yourself. 00:19:53.460 --> 00:20:00.000 We give thanks that you know us so intimately, so perfectly in the workings of our mind and hearts, 00:20:00.600 --> 00:20:03.700 in our emotions, in our concerns, in everything to do with us. 00:20:04.340 --> 00:20:07.660 O Lord, we give thanks that your knowledge of us is perfect. 00:20:08.360 --> 00:20:14.980 And we give thanks that you are able to meet every detail of our need throughout all the circumstances of life. 00:20:15.920 --> 00:20:18.720 Remember those today who mourn the passing of loved ones. 00:20:18.720 --> 00:20:25.940 Lord, in our communities, we are so conscious that there are families from day to day and week to week 00:20:25.940 --> 00:20:30.400 who miss loved ones and who have bereavement to contend with. 00:20:30.400 --> 00:20:38.060 We ask that that will be so for those today, Lord, who have these circumstances in their experience. 00:20:38.759 --> 00:20:42.480 Bless, we pray, those who tend to our needs at such times. 00:20:43.000 --> 00:20:50.280 We give thanks for the undertaker's staff, and we thank you for their own contribution, O Lord, to our well-being. 00:20:50.279 --> 00:20:57.879 As we need their services from time to time, we thank you for them and for the provision you have made for us in that. 00:20:58.619 --> 00:21:05.319 We thank you, Lord, today that we can call upon you on behalf of many who don't pray for themselves. 00:21:05.539 --> 00:21:06.700 And we pray for our world. 00:21:07.460 --> 00:21:08.740 We pray for our nation. 00:21:08.879 --> 00:21:10.059 We pray for our governments. 00:21:10.819 --> 00:21:13.579 We pray for those in authority of different kinds over us, 00:21:13.579 --> 00:21:19.559 those who have the task of maintaining law and order. 00:21:20.019 --> 00:21:22.000 We pray for our police force. 00:21:22.139 --> 00:21:23.579 We pray for our ambulance service. 00:21:24.379 --> 00:21:30.500 We pray for all those resources that are this time so stretched and so short-staffed. 00:21:30.500 --> 00:21:35.139 And we ask, O Lord, that all the emergency services will know your blessing 00:21:35.139 --> 00:21:38.379 and will know your provision to continue to follow them. 00:21:39.279 --> 00:21:42.619 And we ask that you'd bless now our gathering here today. 00:21:42.619 --> 00:21:47.299 We pray that you'd bless those, O Lord, who were mentioned in our intimations today. 00:21:47.899 --> 00:21:48.659 We pray for Dooney. 00:21:48.819 --> 00:21:51.199 We give thanks for his time as treasurer. 00:21:51.379 --> 00:21:57.039 We pray that you'd uphold him at this time and that he may know your grace, O Lord, for his recovery. 00:21:57.659 --> 00:22:01.239 We thank you for that measure of recovery that he already knows. 00:22:01.919 --> 00:22:04.299 We pray, too, Lord, for Gordon as he takes over. 00:22:04.939 --> 00:22:06.679 We thank you for his willingness to do so. 00:22:06.699 --> 00:22:10.379 And we pray for him, not only in that role, but also as a counselor. 00:22:10.380 --> 00:22:12.920 And all others who serve in the core of the two. 00:22:13.360 --> 00:22:16.080 We pray today for them, Lord, and ask that you'd bless them. 00:22:16.780 --> 00:22:20.700 We ask, too, for Ian as he takes on gift aid, treasurer duties. 00:22:20.840 --> 00:22:23.840 We pray that you'd bless him, Lord, in that task. 00:22:24.320 --> 00:22:30.660 And help him and all of them together as they look after these aspects of the congregation's well-being. 00:22:30.660 --> 00:22:33.620 We thank you, Lord, for the generosity of your people. 00:22:34.340 --> 00:22:38.220 We pray at this time for those who are facing hard times financially. 00:22:39.060 --> 00:22:41.880 Bless those, Lord, facing loss of work. 00:22:42.060 --> 00:22:49.240 We pray for those who find the cost of living increased to be such a challenge in their homes and families. 00:22:49.420 --> 00:22:50.580 We ask that you'd bless them. 00:22:51.240 --> 00:22:55.460 And those who are unemployed and looking for work, we remember them in your presence. 00:22:55.460 --> 00:23:01.360 We pray that you'd continue, Lord, to provide for them and to encourage them and to be their portion. 00:23:02.140 --> 00:23:03.740 And so, go before us now, we pray. 00:23:04.400 --> 00:23:07.039 Look upon us in your mercy and guide us into your truth. 00:23:07.420 --> 00:23:09.039 And all for Jesus' sake. 00:23:09.519 --> 00:23:09.880 Amen. 00:23:11.960 --> 00:23:16.279 Well, we're going to have one more singing before we come to look at Psalm 87. 00:23:16.279 --> 00:23:27.379 This singing is from Psalm 132, and as you find it on page 423. 00:23:29.379 --> 00:23:31.720 We're singing verses 13 to 18. 00:23:36.440 --> 00:23:40.099 For God of Zion hath made choice, there he desires to dwell. 00:23:40.720 --> 00:23:44.920 This is my rest, here still I'll stay, for I do like it well. 00:23:44.920 --> 00:23:49.300 That food I'll greatly bless, her poor with bread will satisfy. 00:23:49.900 --> 00:23:55.400 Her priests I'll clothe with health, her saints shall shout forth joyfully. 00:23:55.920 --> 00:23:59.759 Verses 13 to the end of Psalm 132 to God's praise. 00:23:59.759 --> 00:24:06.759 For God of Zion hath made choice, there he desires to dwell. 00:24:06.759 --> 00:24:18.759 For God of Zion hath made choice, there he desires to dwell. 00:24:18.759 --> 00:24:37.759 This is my rest, here still I'll stay, for I do like it well. 00:24:37.759 --> 00:24:56.759 How good and great, he bless her poor, with bread will satisfy. 00:24:56.759 --> 00:25:26.740 And there will I make day this home. 00:25:26.740 --> 00:25:31.980 who'll be nice, there he does, or тысяч would perish. 00:25:31.980 --> 00:25:45.559 For God for blessing me, for him that mine amointed is, 00:25:45.559 --> 00:25:55.639 A love poured in the light 00:25:55.639 --> 00:26:06.359 As with our garment diamond rose 00:26:06.359 --> 00:26:14.779 With shameless Henry's own 00:26:14.779 --> 00:26:25.639 But yet the crown that he can wear 00:26:25.639 --> 00:26:33.700 Upon him flourish shall 00:26:33.700 --> 00:26:42.440 Now will you turn with me please back to the book of Psalms and Psalm 87 00:26:42.440 --> 00:26:47.940 And looking at this short psalm as we read through it a short time ago 00:26:47.940 --> 00:26:54.500 We're just continuing with our short series of studies on Scripture portraits of the church 00:26:54.500 --> 00:26:59.480 We've already seen three from one version, 1 Timothy 3.15 00:26:59.480 --> 00:27:05.720 And we've seen some of the imagery there, some of the illustrations, if you like, that the Bible uses 00:27:05.720 --> 00:27:07.980 To describe God's church 00:27:07.980 --> 00:27:11.100 We looked at the church described there as a household 00:27:11.100 --> 00:27:15.180 And also as the pillar and buttress of the truth 00:27:15.180 --> 00:27:21.579 Looking at the different aspects in which these are important elements of the church's life 00:27:21.579 --> 00:27:26.700 And the Bible's illustrations, of course, are always the best for us 00:27:26.700 --> 00:27:31.920 I know we try and hopefully get illustrations that we can use in the sermons that we preach 00:27:31.920 --> 00:27:39.120 So that hopefully that will help to blend in with the words of Scripture and the message itself 00:27:39.120 --> 00:27:42.500 But the Bible's own illustrations are so brilliant 00:27:42.500 --> 00:27:49.380 And by far better than any other illustrations you can get to illustrate the truth of God for us 00:27:49.380 --> 00:27:54.140 And here we also have an illustration of the church or a portrait of the church 00:27:54.140 --> 00:27:57.720 And it's actually a portrait that combines two things 00:27:57.720 --> 00:28:02.080 It is a portrait of a city in which God has His dwelling 00:28:02.080 --> 00:28:08.560 But there is also an element of, you might say, mothering or motherly care 00:28:08.560 --> 00:28:12.580 On the part of the church for those who belong to the church 00:28:12.580 --> 00:28:16.140 Because it speaks about those who were born there in Zion 00:28:16.140 --> 00:28:21.900 And being born there means being born but looked after by the church herself 00:28:21.900 --> 00:28:23.780 In the imagery of her being a mother 00:28:23.780 --> 00:28:28.580 Which, of course, as we'll see, takes in our responsibility to look after each other 00:28:28.580 --> 00:28:32.259 As those who belong to God's church in this world 00:28:32.259 --> 00:28:36.480 So as we look at these images in the psalm 00:28:36.480 --> 00:28:41.160 I want to look at just three things to try and bring out the teaching of the psalm in that regard 00:28:41.160 --> 00:28:44.920 First of all, this is God's city 00:28:44.920 --> 00:28:49.539 On the holy mount stands the city He founded 00:28:49.539 --> 00:28:55.560 The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwelling places of Jacob 00:28:55.560 --> 00:29:00.940 Glorious things of you are spoken, O city of God 00:29:00.940 --> 00:29:04.640 So the emphasis there, obviously, is on the city 00:29:04.640 --> 00:29:05.800 Zion 00:29:05.800 --> 00:29:10.800 Zion is often used, the word is used often interchangeably with Jerusalem 00:29:10.799 --> 00:29:15.480 Because Mount Zion, outside Jerusalem, where the temple was situated 00:29:15.480 --> 00:29:19.359 Sometimes the word Zion, sometimes it's the word Jerusalem 00:29:19.359 --> 00:29:23.440 But in the spiritual meaning of them, especially in the book of Psalms and the prophets 00:29:23.440 --> 00:29:27.799 They really stand for the people of God in covenant with Him 00:29:27.799 --> 00:29:31.919 Not just the place, but the people who gather in that place 00:29:31.919 --> 00:29:34.460 Who belong to God as His people 00:29:34.460 --> 00:29:42.759 And we saw in our first study that it's so important that we realize the church is people, not buildings 00:29:42.759 --> 00:29:48.960 That it's important that the church is comprised of people in covenant with God 00:29:48.960 --> 00:29:52.480 And not the buildings in which they meet 00:29:52.480 --> 00:29:55.579 Although that's sometimes referred to as the church, of course 00:29:55.579 --> 00:29:58.259 So here is the city of God, God's city 00:29:58.259 --> 00:30:01.500 Secondly, there's an emphasis, verses 4 to 6 00:30:01.500 --> 00:30:05.059 On the mother city of God's children 00:30:05.059 --> 00:30:10.000 The place where God's people are nourished, brought up, and nurtured 00:30:10.000 --> 00:30:13.699 Just as a mother takes care of her children 00:30:13.699 --> 00:30:18.059 So the church is responsible to take care of those who belong to her 00:30:18.059 --> 00:30:21.419 And thirdly, you find in verse 7 00:30:21.419 --> 00:30:26.240 That it's a city of joy and life 00:30:26.240 --> 00:30:27.599 For life and joy 00:30:27.599 --> 00:30:30.359 Singers and dancers alike say 00:30:30.359 --> 00:30:35.220 All my springs, all my well springs are in you 00:30:35.220 --> 00:30:40.399 Let's try and unfold some of the teaching in those three points 00:30:40.399 --> 00:30:42.579 First of all, it's the city He founded 00:30:42.579 --> 00:30:47.379 Now we sang already in some Psalms of Zion earlier on 00:30:47.380 --> 00:30:52.080 And how Zion, despite its small size comparatively 00:30:52.080 --> 00:30:56.160 To those enemies that came to attack from time to time 00:30:56.160 --> 00:30:59.240 Nevertheless, God looked after his city 00:30:59.240 --> 00:31:01.020 God looked after Zion 00:31:01.020 --> 00:31:04.500 Zion was very small compared to the likes of Babylon 00:31:04.500 --> 00:31:08.420 Or Nineveh or these great cities in the world of these times 00:31:08.420 --> 00:31:10.020 But it's mentioned this year 00:31:10.020 --> 00:31:15.040 God founded this city on the Holy Mount 00:31:15.039 --> 00:31:19.079 In other words, there's a stability about this city 00:31:19.079 --> 00:31:24.240 Which is brought out by the fact that it mentions on the Holy Mount 00:31:24.240 --> 00:31:26.659 The city of Zion 00:31:26.659 --> 00:31:31.319 Zion, a place built upon the mountain 00:31:31.319 --> 00:31:36.700 Not just elevated, but also secure in terms of where it is anchored 00:31:36.700 --> 00:31:40.940 And of course that spiritualized is really and is proper for us to spiritualize 00:31:40.940 --> 00:31:42.299 That's what the Bible does 00:31:42.299 --> 00:31:47.500 It reminds us that when God establishes us as a people 00:31:47.500 --> 00:31:50.720 He establishes us on a sure foundation 00:31:50.720 --> 00:31:54.660 It's not something like we saw with the children 00:31:54.660 --> 00:31:55.700 The Tower of Babel 00:31:55.700 --> 00:31:58.960 The attempt of human beings by their own ingenuity 00:31:58.960 --> 00:32:01.799 To try and provide security for themselves 00:32:01.799 --> 00:32:04.839 To try and actually provide a basis for life 00:32:04.839 --> 00:32:06.799 On which they could safely build 00:32:06.799 --> 00:32:09.200 And that passage and others tell us 00:32:09.200 --> 00:32:11.399 You just can't build that for yourself 00:32:11.399 --> 00:32:14.319 You need to belong to the city of God 00:32:14.319 --> 00:32:19.200 You need to belong to the people that God is anchoring firmly in himself 00:32:19.200 --> 00:32:21.539 On the mount that he himself is 00:32:21.539 --> 00:32:23.740 The rock that he himself is 00:32:23.740 --> 00:32:28.359 And of course you carry the imagery of Zion 00:32:28.359 --> 00:32:29.620 As a city 00:32:29.620 --> 00:32:31.500 And the church as a city 00:32:31.500 --> 00:32:32.579 You carry that forward 00:32:32.579 --> 00:32:34.539 Indeed the Bible does it for us 00:32:34.539 --> 00:32:36.940 When it speaks of heaven as a city 00:32:36.940 --> 00:32:38.259 You go to Revelation 00:32:38.259 --> 00:32:41.039 And you find a description there of heaven 00:32:41.039 --> 00:32:44.660 Set out in terms of it being a city 00:32:44.660 --> 00:32:47.500 And you recall what's said in Hebrews chapter 11 00:32:47.500 --> 00:32:49.519 About Abraham especially 00:32:49.519 --> 00:32:51.440 And Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob 00:32:51.440 --> 00:32:53.240 They traveled about different places 00:32:53.240 --> 00:32:57.180 They didn't have a place that they could actually settle in 00:32:57.180 --> 00:32:59.920 And this is what it says about Abraham 00:32:59.920 --> 00:33:04.319 He dwelt in tents with Isaac and Jacob 00:33:04.319 --> 00:33:07.160 Heirs with him of the same promise 00:33:07.160 --> 00:33:07.779 What promise? 00:33:08.059 --> 00:33:09.859 The promise of a lasting inheritance 00:33:09.859 --> 00:33:15.700 For he was looking for a city that has foundations 00:33:15.700 --> 00:33:19.660 Whose builder and maker is God 00:33:19.660 --> 00:33:22.240 And in that wonderful chapter 00:33:22.240 --> 00:33:22.940 Chapter 11 00:33:22.940 --> 00:33:23.680 That list 00:33:23.680 --> 00:33:27.980 That wonderful logbook if you like 00:33:27.980 --> 00:33:29.840 Of those who lived by faith 00:33:29.840 --> 00:33:31.779 You come to the middle of the chapter or thereabouts 00:33:31.779 --> 00:33:33.940 It tells us that those who 00:33:33.940 --> 00:33:36.440 Actually came to know the Lord 00:33:36.440 --> 00:33:38.680 They might have had opportunity to return 00:33:38.680 --> 00:33:39.320 To go back 00:33:39.320 --> 00:33:40.440 But they didn't want to do that 00:33:40.440 --> 00:33:42.420 They were looking for a homeland 00:33:42.420 --> 00:33:45.740 And so God is not ashamed 00:33:45.740 --> 00:33:48.400 To be called their God 00:33:48.400 --> 00:33:53.560 For he has provided for them a city 00:33:53.560 --> 00:33:55.660 He has made for them 00:33:55.660 --> 00:33:58.380 He has created for them a city 00:33:58.380 --> 00:34:00.640 When we call God today 00:34:00.640 --> 00:34:01.980 Our God 00:34:01.980 --> 00:34:02.800 When you call God 00:34:02.800 --> 00:34:03.980 My God 00:34:03.980 --> 00:34:05.940 You're using covenant language 00:34:05.940 --> 00:34:08.039 You're using the language of citizenship 00:34:08.039 --> 00:34:11.300 You're using the language of belonging to God's church 00:34:11.300 --> 00:34:14.840 And you're looking forward to a city 00:34:14.840 --> 00:34:16.000 That has foundations 00:34:16.000 --> 00:34:17.199 To heaven 00:34:17.199 --> 00:34:20.480 Whose builder and maker is God 00:34:20.480 --> 00:34:21.599 And you notice what he says here 00:34:21.599 --> 00:34:24.139 The Lord loves the gates of Zion 00:34:24.139 --> 00:34:26.900 More than all the dwelling places of Jacob 00:34:26.900 --> 00:34:30.199 Now often the gates of a place in the Old Testament 00:34:30.199 --> 00:34:34.739 Mean the important center place of that city 00:34:34.739 --> 00:34:36.879 It's not just gates in the sense of which 00:34:36.879 --> 00:34:39.279 Gates were placed on the walls for security 00:34:39.279 --> 00:34:42.099 The gates were often where the council met 00:34:42.099 --> 00:34:45.159 Where the important people who took the decisions met 00:34:45.159 --> 00:34:46.239 In the city 00:34:46.239 --> 00:34:48.139 The gates of Jerusalem 00:34:48.139 --> 00:34:49.279 The gates of Zion 00:34:49.279 --> 00:34:52.000 Are where the business of the place takes 00:34:52.000 --> 00:34:54.139 The business of the place occurs 00:34:54.139 --> 00:34:55.839 Where decisions are taken 00:34:55.839 --> 00:34:57.000 So it's really saying 00:34:57.000 --> 00:34:59.899 The Lord loves the gates of Zion 00:34:59.900 --> 00:35:01.539 He loves the people 00:35:01.539 --> 00:35:03.420 He loves what's going on in Zion 00:35:03.420 --> 00:35:06.220 More than all the dwelling places of Jacob 00:35:06.220 --> 00:35:07.360 Because Jacob you see 00:35:07.360 --> 00:35:09.380 As we mentioned with Abraham as well 00:35:09.380 --> 00:35:11.660 Went from place to place in tents 00:35:11.660 --> 00:35:16.019 Dwelling places you could just lift up and take with you 00:35:16.019 --> 00:35:18.480 Because they were looking forward to permanence 00:35:18.480 --> 00:35:20.220 Looking forward to stability 00:35:20.220 --> 00:35:21.780 That would last for them 00:35:21.780 --> 00:35:23.340 A city that has foundations 00:35:23.340 --> 00:35:25.820 Whose builder and maker is God 00:35:25.820 --> 00:35:27.660 And now he's saying 00:35:27.659 --> 00:35:30.099 God loves the gates of Zion 00:35:30.099 --> 00:35:31.839 Why does he love the gates of Zion 00:35:31.839 --> 00:35:34.279 More than all the dwelling places of Jacob 00:35:34.279 --> 00:35:36.839 Because he has fulfilled his promise 00:35:36.839 --> 00:35:39.500 That he would actually come to speak 00:35:39.500 --> 00:35:41.139 Of a place where he would build 00:35:41.139 --> 00:35:42.839 A temple would be built for him 00:35:42.839 --> 00:35:43.940 Where his people would gather 00:35:43.940 --> 00:35:46.219 Where they wouldn't have to go from place to place 00:35:46.219 --> 00:35:47.759 Where they would no longer be traveling 00:35:47.759 --> 00:35:48.579 Through the wilderness 00:35:48.579 --> 00:35:51.440 Where they would be settled in the land of promise 00:35:51.440 --> 00:35:55.659 And he loves the gates of Zion 00:35:55.659 --> 00:35:57.720 More than the dwelling places of Jacob 00:35:57.720 --> 00:36:00.460 Doesn't mean he didn't love the dwelling places of Jacob 00:36:00.460 --> 00:36:02.000 But it does mean that 00:36:02.000 --> 00:36:04.400 When they settled and built a temple 00:36:04.400 --> 00:36:05.980 And worshipped in Zion 00:36:05.980 --> 00:36:09.760 God's love was focused upon them 00:36:09.760 --> 00:36:13.780 It's a covenant community 00:36:13.780 --> 00:36:16.019 In relationship with God 00:36:16.019 --> 00:36:22.800 Isn't that such a precious thing for yourself 00:36:22.800 --> 00:36:24.579 And for myself 00:36:24.579 --> 00:36:25.420 And for ourselves 00:36:25.420 --> 00:36:27.639 We shouldn't really be thinking 00:36:27.639 --> 00:36:29.699 So much in individual terms 00:36:29.699 --> 00:36:32.079 As in the congregational sense 00:36:32.079 --> 00:36:33.719 Because as we gather here 00:36:33.719 --> 00:36:36.400 We're gathering here as a covenant community 00:36:36.400 --> 00:36:39.440 As a people who stand in covenant with God 00:36:39.440 --> 00:36:41.559 As baptized members of His church 00:36:41.559 --> 00:36:43.539 Most of us at least 00:36:43.539 --> 00:36:46.239 And that means that in that covenant 00:36:46.239 --> 00:36:47.320 We have with God 00:36:47.320 --> 00:36:49.340 God is our God 00:36:49.340 --> 00:36:50.920 We can take Him as our God 00:36:50.920 --> 00:36:53.719 He delights in being known as our God 00:36:53.719 --> 00:36:57.860 And in His love He has provided salvation for us 00:36:57.860 --> 00:36:59.619 In Jesus Christ 00:36:59.619 --> 00:37:04.380 It says glorious things of you are spoken 00:37:04.380 --> 00:37:07.000 O city of God 00:37:07.000 --> 00:37:10.119 What glorious things 00:37:10.119 --> 00:37:12.480 Well especially those things 00:37:12.480 --> 00:37:13.619 That are mentioned then 00:37:13.619 --> 00:37:14.539 In the following verses 00:37:14.539 --> 00:37:16.139 But glorious things 00:37:16.139 --> 00:37:17.460 Are spoken of the church 00:37:17.460 --> 00:37:19.059 Because the church's future 00:37:19.059 --> 00:37:21.559 Is amazingly glorious 00:37:21.559 --> 00:37:24.380 You see all of these enemies 00:37:24.380 --> 00:37:26.500 That try to actually deal with Zion 00:37:26.500 --> 00:37:27.679 And wipe out Zion 00:37:27.679 --> 00:37:30.119 And the same down through the ages 00:37:30.119 --> 00:37:31.460 Wiping out the church 00:37:31.460 --> 00:37:32.340 If it were possible 00:37:32.340 --> 00:37:33.539 Which it isn't 00:37:33.539 --> 00:37:35.139 Denominations come and go 00:37:35.139 --> 00:37:36.559 But God's church remains 00:37:36.559 --> 00:37:39.179 And as long as sun and moon endure 00:37:39.179 --> 00:37:40.559 God will have a covenant 00:37:40.559 --> 00:37:42.119 People somewhere in the world 00:37:42.119 --> 00:37:43.840 Until the end of the world 00:37:43.840 --> 00:37:45.299 You see here is Zion 00:37:45.299 --> 00:37:46.619 This tiny place 00:37:46.619 --> 00:37:47.559 Compared to Babylon 00:37:47.559 --> 00:37:50.039 Or the might of the Assyrians 00:37:50.039 --> 00:37:50.779 Whatever it was 00:37:50.779 --> 00:37:51.400 Whatever 00:37:51.400 --> 00:37:53.519 People were attacking her 00:37:53.519 --> 00:37:55.320 And yet she survived 00:37:55.320 --> 00:37:56.259 Look at the apostles 00:37:56.259 --> 00:37:57.820 Look at that small group 00:37:57.820 --> 00:37:59.340 Of people gathered 00:37:59.340 --> 00:38:01.679 After Jesus' resurrection 00:38:01.679 --> 00:38:03.539 Before He ascended to heaven 00:38:03.539 --> 00:38:05.119 And then even afterwards 00:38:05.119 --> 00:38:06.500 Look at them gathered there 00:38:06.500 --> 00:38:07.940 Before the day of Pentecost 00:38:07.940 --> 00:38:10.220 Before the Spirit came with power 00:38:10.220 --> 00:38:11.920 What are they in number? 00:38:12.019 --> 00:38:12.700 They're so small 00:38:12.700 --> 00:38:13.679 They're so insignificant 00:38:13.679 --> 00:38:15.840 In comparison to the world around them 00:38:15.840 --> 00:38:17.400 How were these people 00:38:17.400 --> 00:38:18.740 That small group of people 00:38:18.740 --> 00:38:20.619 Ever going to produce something 00:38:20.619 --> 00:38:22.260 Ever going to be something 00:38:22.260 --> 00:38:24.280 Meaningful in that great world? 00:38:26.220 --> 00:38:27.760 Well if you look at the history 00:38:27.760 --> 00:38:28.420 Of the church 00:38:28.420 --> 00:38:29.519 That's something you see 00:38:29.519 --> 00:38:31.539 All the way down to the present day 00:38:31.539 --> 00:38:34.980 Why is there a church? 00:38:35.679 --> 00:38:36.460 What's the reason 00:38:36.460 --> 00:38:38.139 The church continues to exist? 00:38:39.559 --> 00:38:40.420 What's the reason 00:38:40.420 --> 00:38:41.820 Despite all the attempts 00:38:41.820 --> 00:38:43.199 To actually do away 00:38:43.199 --> 00:38:43.880 With the gospel 00:38:43.880 --> 00:38:45.139 And do away with the church 00:38:45.139 --> 00:38:47.279 How come it's still there? 00:38:47.380 --> 00:38:48.679 How come we still have 00:38:48.679 --> 00:38:50.000 A believing people 00:38:50.000 --> 00:38:50.820 Left in the world 00:38:50.820 --> 00:38:52.039 In covenant with God? 00:38:52.380 --> 00:38:53.300 Because God 00:38:53.300 --> 00:38:54.119 The Most High 00:38:54.119 --> 00:38:55.039 Establishes her 00:38:55.039 --> 00:38:55.519 That's why 00:38:55.519 --> 00:38:56.880 It's God's church 00:38:56.880 --> 00:38:59.159 That's what He said to Peter 00:38:59.159 --> 00:38:59.579 Wasn't it? 00:38:59.639 --> 00:39:00.460 Matthew 16 00:39:00.460 --> 00:39:02.360 I will build 00:39:02.360 --> 00:39:03.220 My church 00:39:03.220 --> 00:39:04.000 Jesus said 00:39:04.000 --> 00:39:05.760 And the gates of hell 00:39:05.760 --> 00:39:07.519 Shall not prevail against it 00:39:07.519 --> 00:39:08.079 You see using 00:39:08.079 --> 00:39:09.579 The gates in the same way 00:39:09.579 --> 00:39:10.800 As it's used in the psalm here 00:39:10.800 --> 00:39:12.159 The gates of Zion 00:39:12.159 --> 00:39:13.860 The gates of hell 00:39:13.860 --> 00:39:15.659 The powers of darkness 00:39:15.659 --> 00:39:17.039 The powers of enmity 00:39:17.039 --> 00:39:17.800 To the gospel 00:39:17.800 --> 00:39:19.639 All the different ways 00:39:19.639 --> 00:39:20.539 In which the 00:39:20.539 --> 00:39:21.780 The thinkings 00:39:21.780 --> 00:39:22.860 The intrigues 00:39:22.860 --> 00:39:23.920 The plans 00:39:23.920 --> 00:39:25.199 The purposes 00:39:25.199 --> 00:39:27.099 Of the kingdom of darkness 00:39:27.099 --> 00:39:29.380 In which they conspire together 00:39:29.380 --> 00:39:30.420 Against the church 00:39:30.420 --> 00:39:31.980 And we're still here 00:39:31.980 --> 00:39:34.480 We don't take pride 00:39:34.480 --> 00:39:35.220 In being here 00:39:35.220 --> 00:39:36.200 It's not our 00:39:36.200 --> 00:39:37.539 Doing as such 00:39:37.539 --> 00:39:39.039 But God has seen to it 00:39:39.039 --> 00:39:41.039 That He will establish 00:39:41.039 --> 00:39:41.659 His church 00:39:41.659 --> 00:39:43.519 Glorious things of you 00:39:43.519 --> 00:39:44.059 Are spoken 00:39:44.059 --> 00:39:45.720 O city of God 00:39:45.719 --> 00:39:47.099 And when you go 00:39:47.099 --> 00:39:47.119 And when you go 00:39:47.119 --> 00:39:49.019 Into the New Testament 00:39:49.019 --> 00:39:50.500 And onto the book of Revelation 00:39:50.500 --> 00:39:52.579 And find the imagery 00:39:52.579 --> 00:39:53.559 There described 00:39:53.559 --> 00:39:55.519 Where heaven is described 00:39:55.519 --> 00:39:56.199 As a city 00:39:56.199 --> 00:39:58.119 With all this wonderful 00:39:58.119 --> 00:39:59.759 Emphasis on 00:39:59.759 --> 00:40:01.439 The most precious stones 00:40:01.439 --> 00:40:02.279 And gold 00:40:02.279 --> 00:40:03.159 And all the rest of it 00:40:03.159 --> 00:40:05.079 These are just images 00:40:05.079 --> 00:40:06.959 Of something far better 00:40:06.959 --> 00:40:08.619 Than diamonds and gold 00:40:08.619 --> 00:40:09.279 In themselves 00:40:09.280 --> 00:40:12.260 It's the presence of God 00:40:12.260 --> 00:40:14.300 Life with God 00:40:14.300 --> 00:40:15.760 Salvation 00:40:15.760 --> 00:40:16.960 Through Christ 00:40:16.960 --> 00:40:21.500 Glorious things 00:40:21.500 --> 00:40:22.240 Are spoken 00:40:22.240 --> 00:40:24.600 Of the city of God 00:40:24.599 --> 00:40:26.739 Aren't you privileged today 00:40:26.739 --> 00:40:28.920 To be a citizen of Zion 00:40:28.920 --> 00:40:31.799 To be a citizen of the church 00:40:31.799 --> 00:40:34.000 To be brought up 00:40:34.000 --> 00:40:34.719 Under the teaching 00:40:34.719 --> 00:40:35.420 Of the gospel 00:40:35.420 --> 00:40:37.279 To be in covenant 00:40:37.279 --> 00:40:38.079 With God 00:40:38.079 --> 00:40:41.219 And to have these promises 00:40:41.219 --> 00:40:42.900 Addressed to you 00:40:42.900 --> 00:40:43.480 As believers 00:40:43.480 --> 00:40:46.380 But it's also 00:40:46.380 --> 00:40:46.900 Secondly 00:40:46.900 --> 00:40:47.699 The mother city 00:40:47.699 --> 00:40:48.559 Of God's children 00:40:48.559 --> 00:40:49.280 You see this 00:40:49.280 --> 00:40:50.960 Emphasis from verse 4 00:40:50.960 --> 00:40:52.199 Among those who know me 00:40:52.199 --> 00:40:53.880 I mention Rahab 00:40:53.880 --> 00:40:54.699 And Babylon 00:40:54.699 --> 00:40:55.940 Philistia 00:40:55.940 --> 00:40:56.559 And Tyre 00:40:56.559 --> 00:40:57.039 With Cush 00:40:57.039 --> 00:40:58.840 This one was born there 00:40:58.840 --> 00:40:59.340 They say 00:40:59.340 --> 00:41:00.519 And of Zion 00:41:00.519 --> 00:41:01.300 It shall be said 00:41:01.300 --> 00:41:01.840 This one 00:41:01.840 --> 00:41:02.760 And that one 00:41:02.760 --> 00:41:03.679 Were born in her 00:41:03.679 --> 00:41:04.920 For the most high 00:41:04.920 --> 00:41:06.320 Himself will establish her 00:41:06.320 --> 00:41:07.840 The Lord records 00:41:07.840 --> 00:41:08.599 As he registers 00:41:08.599 --> 00:41:09.179 The people 00:41:09.179 --> 00:41:09.820 This one 00:41:09.820 --> 00:41:11.159 Was born there 00:41:11.159 --> 00:41:11.820 Three times 00:41:11.820 --> 00:41:12.639 You have mentioned there 00:41:12.639 --> 00:41:14.519 This one was born there 00:41:14.519 --> 00:41:16.920 Because Zion is a 00:41:16.920 --> 00:41:18.799 Spiritually a place 00:41:18.799 --> 00:41:19.879 Of living people 00:41:19.879 --> 00:41:21.739 People come to 00:41:21.739 --> 00:41:23.239 Spiritual birth 00:41:23.239 --> 00:41:25.440 Through belonging 00:41:25.440 --> 00:41:26.339 To the church 00:41:26.339 --> 00:41:27.159 And even if you 00:41:27.159 --> 00:41:28.739 Are outside of the church 00:41:28.739 --> 00:41:29.519 Completely 00:41:29.519 --> 00:41:30.420 And never belong 00:41:30.420 --> 00:41:31.159 To the church 00:41:31.159 --> 00:41:33.000 And God starts working 00:41:33.000 --> 00:41:33.639 In your life 00:41:33.639 --> 00:41:34.639 A person's life 00:41:34.639 --> 00:41:36.139 Anybody out there 00:41:36.139 --> 00:41:36.879 Today who's never 00:41:36.879 --> 00:41:37.599 Been to church 00:41:37.599 --> 00:41:38.259 Who's never heard 00:41:38.259 --> 00:41:38.759 The gospel 00:41:38.759 --> 00:41:39.879 And God comes 00:41:39.879 --> 00:41:40.779 Into their life 00:41:40.779 --> 00:41:41.799 Well then they're 00:41:41.800 --> 00:41:43.039 Joined to the church 00:41:43.039 --> 00:41:43.920 They come to belong 00:41:43.920 --> 00:41:44.560 To Zion 00:41:44.560 --> 00:41:46.400 They come to be a part 00:41:46.400 --> 00:41:47.140 Of this covenant 00:41:47.140 --> 00:41:48.340 Believing community 00:41:48.340 --> 00:41:50.720 You can never separate 00:41:50.720 --> 00:41:51.940 The church 00:41:51.940 --> 00:41:52.640 And what the church 00:41:52.640 --> 00:41:53.100 Is 00:41:53.100 --> 00:41:54.800 From rebirth 00:41:54.800 --> 00:41:56.100 From being born again 00:41:56.100 --> 00:41:56.600 This is what 00:41:56.600 --> 00:41:57.800 It takes us to 00:41:57.800 --> 00:41:59.019 The New Testament 00:41:59.019 --> 00:41:59.400 But 00:41:59.400 --> 00:42:01.060 Look at what it's saying 00:42:01.060 --> 00:42:01.280 There 00:42:01.280 --> 00:42:02.180 Mentioning 00:42:02.180 --> 00:42:03.080 Rahab, Babylon, 00:42:03.320 --> 00:42:04.360 Philistia, and Tyre 00:42:04.360 --> 00:42:05.720 Most of these 00:42:05.720 --> 00:42:06.820 Were enemies of Israel 00:42:06.820 --> 00:42:08.600 Enemies of the Jewish 00:42:08.600 --> 00:42:09.420 People of Zion 00:42:09.420 --> 00:42:11.720 And yet it speaks here 00:42:11.720 --> 00:42:13.539 Of a great intake 00:42:13.539 --> 00:42:15.019 You'll find that 00:42:15.019 --> 00:42:15.700 In the prophets 00:42:15.700 --> 00:42:17.039 Likes of Isaiah 00:42:17.039 --> 00:42:17.920 Chapter 2 00:42:17.920 --> 00:42:19.280 Chapter 25 00:42:19.280 --> 00:42:20.579 Chapter 56 00:42:20.579 --> 00:42:21.740 And of course 00:42:21.740 --> 00:42:22.539 In the New Testament 00:42:22.539 --> 00:42:23.820 Ephesians 00:42:23.820 --> 00:42:25.280 Chapter 2 00:42:25.280 --> 00:42:26.820 The death of Jesus 00:42:26.820 --> 00:42:28.300 Is the means 00:42:28.300 --> 00:42:29.220 By which God 00:42:29.220 --> 00:42:30.579 Has brought together 00:42:30.579 --> 00:42:31.840 And joined together 00:42:31.840 --> 00:42:33.280 Jew and Gentile 00:42:33.280 --> 00:42:33.659 Alike 00:42:33.659 --> 00:42:34.920 Within the one church 00:42:34.920 --> 00:42:36.139 And so important 00:42:36.139 --> 00:42:36.960 To the apostles 00:42:36.960 --> 00:42:38.039 That there is 00:42:38.039 --> 00:42:39.340 Only one church 00:42:39.340 --> 00:42:40.519 One believing people 00:42:40.519 --> 00:42:41.079 Of God 00:42:41.079 --> 00:42:41.980 However many 00:42:41.980 --> 00:42:42.780 Denominations 00:42:42.780 --> 00:42:43.659 There may be 00:42:43.659 --> 00:42:45.200 But there are 00:42:45.200 --> 00:42:45.900 There is only 00:42:45.900 --> 00:42:47.240 The one believing 00:42:47.240 --> 00:42:48.420 People of God 00:42:48.420 --> 00:42:50.380 Why was that 00:42:50.380 --> 00:42:51.440 Important to the apostles? 00:42:52.099 --> 00:42:52.720 It was important 00:42:52.720 --> 00:42:53.220 Because 00:42:53.220 --> 00:42:54.780 They saw it 00:42:54.780 --> 00:42:56.119 That God's 00:42:56.119 --> 00:42:56.619 Zion 00:42:56.619 --> 00:42:57.579 God's church 00:42:57.579 --> 00:42:58.820 Was one 00:42:58.820 --> 00:42:59.920 Right through 00:42:59.920 --> 00:43:00.900 From the Old Testament 00:43:00.900 --> 00:43:01.760 Into the new 00:43:01.760 --> 00:43:03.039 And on into eternity 00:43:03.039 --> 00:43:05.159 They weren't thinking 00:43:05.159 --> 00:43:06.199 Of the church 00:43:06.199 --> 00:43:07.199 Of the Old Testament 00:43:07.199 --> 00:43:09.039 As a different church 00:43:09.039 --> 00:43:09.639 To the church 00:43:09.639 --> 00:43:10.719 Of the New Testament 00:43:10.719 --> 00:43:11.960 In its essence 00:43:11.960 --> 00:43:12.800 They are the people 00:43:12.800 --> 00:43:13.440 Of God 00:43:13.440 --> 00:43:15.519 And so that's 00:43:15.519 --> 00:43:16.779 What remains true 00:43:16.779 --> 00:43:17.699 For ourselves 00:43:17.699 --> 00:43:19.480 We come today 00:43:19.480 --> 00:43:20.759 To be God's 00:43:20.759 --> 00:43:21.480 People 00:43:21.480 --> 00:43:22.099 In covenant 00:43:22.099 --> 00:43:22.820 With himself 00:43:22.820 --> 00:43:25.099 And as we do so 00:43:25.099 --> 00:43:26.259 We connect with those 00:43:26.259 --> 00:43:27.699 Who've gone before us 00:43:27.699 --> 00:43:28.320 And that's another 00:43:28.320 --> 00:43:29.500 Image that the 00:43:29.500 --> 00:43:30.699 New Testament uses 00:43:30.699 --> 00:43:31.199 God willing 00:43:31.199 --> 00:43:31.840 We'll come to look 00:43:31.840 --> 00:43:32.480 At that one too 00:43:32.480 --> 00:43:33.940 The image of the church 00:43:33.940 --> 00:43:34.900 As a body 00:43:34.900 --> 00:43:36.340 The body 00:43:36.340 --> 00:43:37.559 Of Christ 00:43:37.559 --> 00:43:38.099 The body 00:43:38.099 --> 00:43:39.619 That's joined together 00:43:39.619 --> 00:43:41.199 Different parts 00:43:41.199 --> 00:43:42.119 But all functioning 00:43:42.119 --> 00:43:43.340 As one 00:43:43.340 --> 00:43:45.159 Well there's the intake 00:43:45.159 --> 00:43:46.780 Of the Gentiles 00:43:46.780 --> 00:43:48.000 Of which you and I 00:43:48.000 --> 00:43:49.219 Ourselves are part 00:43:49.219 --> 00:43:50.199 The Gentiles being 00:43:50.199 --> 00:43:52.179 All those who are not Jews 00:43:52.179 --> 00:43:54.500 Apart from the Jewish people 00:43:54.500 --> 00:43:55.960 Everybody else in the world 00:43:55.960 --> 00:43:57.280 Were known as the Gentiles 00:43:57.280 --> 00:43:58.340 The Gentile world 00:43:58.340 --> 00:43:59.920 This is what God had 00:43:59.920 --> 00:44:00.500 In his purpose 00:44:00.500 --> 00:44:01.599 To bring Gentile 00:44:01.599 --> 00:44:02.480 And due together 00:44:02.480 --> 00:44:04.839 To be one believing 00:44:04.839 --> 00:44:06.900 People in his name 00:44:06.900 --> 00:44:08.880 And of course 00:44:08.880 --> 00:44:10.059 The emphasis 00:44:10.059 --> 00:44:10.920 In the New Testament 00:44:10.920 --> 00:44:13.039 Of being born again 00:44:13.039 --> 00:44:14.119 You see how it's 00:44:14.119 --> 00:44:14.900 Mentioning here 00:44:14.900 --> 00:44:15.759 The register 00:44:15.759 --> 00:44:16.739 That God keeps 00:44:16.739 --> 00:44:17.799 The Lord records 00:44:17.799 --> 00:44:19.239 As he registers 00:44:19.239 --> 00:44:19.880 The people 00:44:19.880 --> 00:44:22.239 This one was born there 00:44:22.239 --> 00:44:23.159 Where? 00:44:23.420 --> 00:44:24.119 In Zion 00:44:24.119 --> 00:44:27.039 They belong to his church 00:44:27.039 --> 00:44:30.139 And it's interesting 00:44:30.139 --> 00:44:30.559 Isn't it 00:44:30.559 --> 00:44:32.480 That there's an emphasis 00:44:32.480 --> 00:44:35.699 There on the people 00:44:35.699 --> 00:44:36.359 Together 00:44:36.359 --> 00:44:38.339 Congregationally 00:44:38.339 --> 00:44:39.480 Corporately 00:44:39.480 --> 00:44:41.139 The totality 00:44:41.139 --> 00:44:41.699 If you like 00:44:41.699 --> 00:44:42.279 Of the people 00:44:42.279 --> 00:44:43.299 And yet 00:44:43.299 --> 00:44:43.900 There's also 00:44:43.900 --> 00:44:45.000 This wonderful emphasis 00:44:45.000 --> 00:44:46.319 Individually 00:44:46.320 --> 00:44:48.660 The Lord records 00:44:48.660 --> 00:44:50.000 As he registers 00:44:50.000 --> 00:44:50.640 The people 00:44:50.640 --> 00:44:52.160 This one 00:44:52.160 --> 00:44:53.539 And that one 00:44:53.539 --> 00:44:55.019 Was born there 00:44:55.019 --> 00:44:59.019 Because when you come 00:44:59.019 --> 00:45:00.900 To be born again 00:45:00.900 --> 00:45:02.559 And when the Lord 00:45:02.559 --> 00:45:03.380 Takes note 00:45:03.380 --> 00:45:05.180 Of your spiritual rebirth 00:45:05.180 --> 00:45:06.320 That he brings about 00:45:06.320 --> 00:45:08.019 And when as it were 00:45:08.019 --> 00:45:08.740 He records 00:45:08.740 --> 00:45:10.440 Your birth certificate 00:45:10.440 --> 00:45:11.480 In his register 00:45:11.480 --> 00:45:12.059 In heaven 00:45:12.059 --> 00:45:13.599 You're there 00:45:13.599 --> 00:45:14.559 As an individual 00:45:14.559 --> 00:45:15.239 It belongs 00:45:15.239 --> 00:45:16.440 To this larger group 00:45:16.440 --> 00:45:17.599 In other words 00:45:17.599 --> 00:45:20.039 God is actually saying 00:45:20.039 --> 00:45:21.039 That each one 00:45:21.039 --> 00:45:21.779 That is born 00:45:21.779 --> 00:45:23.079 Is precious to him 00:45:23.079 --> 00:45:25.679 It's pastorally 00:45:25.679 --> 00:45:26.320 Significant 00:45:26.320 --> 00:45:27.380 To God himself 00:45:27.380 --> 00:45:28.079 Because it means 00:45:28.079 --> 00:45:29.759 Every single one 00:45:29.759 --> 00:45:30.779 Of these individuals 00:45:30.779 --> 00:45:31.940 Born in Zion 00:45:31.940 --> 00:45:33.779 Are precious to him 00:45:33.779 --> 00:45:35.759 And have his full attention 00:45:35.759 --> 00:45:39.380 They have his care 00:45:39.380 --> 00:45:40.320 And full attention 00:45:40.320 --> 00:45:42.700 As he actually records 00:45:42.700 --> 00:45:44.420 That they are his people 00:45:44.420 --> 00:45:45.960 That they belong to him 00:45:45.960 --> 00:45:47.880 That they are the born 00:45:47.880 --> 00:45:48.380 Children 00:45:48.380 --> 00:45:49.460 Of Zion 00:45:49.460 --> 00:45:51.120 You know 00:45:51.120 --> 00:45:51.660 One of the things 00:45:51.660 --> 00:45:52.019 That I 00:45:52.019 --> 00:45:53.780 Fail to appreciate 00:45:53.780 --> 00:45:54.460 Myself 00:45:54.460 --> 00:45:56.580 Is the 00:45:56.580 --> 00:45:58.260 Relevance 00:45:58.260 --> 00:45:59.140 And importance 00:45:59.140 --> 00:46:00.740 And the privilege 00:46:00.740 --> 00:46:01.460 Of belonging 00:46:01.460 --> 00:46:02.340 To the church 00:46:02.340 --> 00:46:04.120 Of belonging 00:46:04.120 --> 00:46:05.080 To God's people 00:46:05.080 --> 00:46:05.760 In this world 00:46:05.760 --> 00:46:08.260 Of having my place 00:46:08.260 --> 00:46:09.720 Amongst those people 00:46:09.719 --> 00:46:11.699 Of whom this is said 00:46:11.699 --> 00:46:12.459 And other things 00:46:12.459 --> 00:46:13.019 Are said 00:46:13.019 --> 00:46:14.739 We sometimes 00:46:14.739 --> 00:46:15.480 You know 00:46:15.480 --> 00:46:16.980 Find it all too easy 00:46:16.980 --> 00:46:18.399 Just to have 00:46:18.399 --> 00:46:20.139 A criticism 00:46:20.139 --> 00:46:21.059 Of the church 00:46:21.059 --> 00:46:21.759 And that's sometimes 00:46:21.759 --> 00:46:22.959 Very rightly the case 00:46:22.959 --> 00:46:24.199 Because we all need 00:46:24.199 --> 00:46:24.679 Sometimes 00:46:24.679 --> 00:46:25.879 To be criticized 00:46:25.879 --> 00:46:27.219 And to find fault 00:46:27.219 --> 00:46:27.759 With us 00:46:27.759 --> 00:46:30.159 But what a huge 00:46:30.159 --> 00:46:31.659 Privilege it is today 00:46:31.659 --> 00:46:32.639 For you and for me 00:46:32.639 --> 00:46:34.139 To belong 00:46:34.139 --> 00:46:35.000 To this people 00:46:35.000 --> 00:46:36.299 To be a citizen 00:46:36.299 --> 00:46:37.000 Of Zion 00:46:37.000 --> 00:46:38.420 To be born 00:46:38.420 --> 00:46:39.000 In the church 00:46:39.000 --> 00:46:39.539 Of God 00:46:39.539 --> 00:46:40.320 To be looked 00:46:40.320 --> 00:46:41.500 After by God 00:46:41.500 --> 00:46:42.519 To have God's 00:46:42.519 --> 00:46:43.179 Full attention 00:46:43.179 --> 00:46:44.760 As he brings up 00:46:44.760 --> 00:46:46.219 His children 00:46:46.219 --> 00:46:47.260 Spiritually 00:46:47.260 --> 00:46:48.039 For himself 00:46:48.039 --> 00:46:50.639 And 00:46:50.639 --> 00:46:53.139 That image 00:46:53.139 --> 00:46:54.320 Of the church 00:46:54.320 --> 00:46:56.340 Is so important 00:46:56.340 --> 00:46:57.039 For ourselves 00:46:57.039 --> 00:46:57.579 Because 00:46:57.579 --> 00:46:58.860 It's not just 00:46:58.860 --> 00:46:59.659 A case of 00:46:59.659 --> 00:47:00.519 Looking at 00:47:00.519 --> 00:47:01.260 An image 00:47:01.260 --> 00:47:03.160 When you go 00:47:03.160 --> 00:47:04.000 To the New Testament 00:47:04.000 --> 00:47:05.400 And when you go 00:47:05.400 --> 00:47:05.940 To a passage 00:47:05.940 --> 00:47:06.340 Like 00:47:06.340 --> 00:47:08.820 Colossians chapter 3 00:47:08.820 --> 00:47:11.060 Verse 12 00:47:11.060 --> 00:47:12.380 This is really 00:47:12.380 --> 00:47:13.280 What it comes to 00:47:13.280 --> 00:47:14.840 When you find 00:47:14.840 --> 00:47:15.280 Zion 00:47:15.280 --> 00:47:16.420 Being 00:47:16.420 --> 00:47:17.320 The place 00:47:17.320 --> 00:47:17.960 Or the people 00:47:17.960 --> 00:47:18.640 In which we are 00:47:18.640 --> 00:47:19.940 Nurtured and nourished 00:47:19.940 --> 00:47:20.600 Spiritually 00:47:20.600 --> 00:47:22.180 Remember how 00:47:22.180 --> 00:47:23.120 Paul there writes 00:47:23.120 --> 00:47:23.560 As follows 00:47:23.560 --> 00:47:24.200 Put on then 00:47:24.200 --> 00:47:25.480 As God's chosen ones 00:47:25.480 --> 00:47:27.380 Holy and beloved 00:47:27.380 --> 00:47:28.800 Compassion 00:47:28.800 --> 00:47:30.160 Kindness 00:47:30.160 --> 00:47:31.380 Humility 00:47:31.380 --> 00:47:32.820 Meekness 00:47:32.820 --> 00:47:33.740 And patience 00:47:33.740 --> 00:47:35.840 Bearing with one another 00:47:35.840 --> 00:47:37.680 And if one has a complaint 00:47:37.680 --> 00:47:38.420 Against another 00:47:38.420 --> 00:47:39.559 Forgiving each other 00:47:39.559 --> 00:47:40.800 As the Lord 00:47:40.800 --> 00:47:41.820 Has forgiven you 00:47:41.820 --> 00:47:43.240 So you also 00:47:43.240 --> 00:47:44.079 Must forgive 00:47:44.079 --> 00:47:45.980 And above all these 00:47:45.980 --> 00:47:47.400 Put on love 00:47:47.400 --> 00:47:48.860 Which binds 00:47:48.860 --> 00:47:49.900 Everything together 00:47:49.900 --> 00:47:51.700 In perfect harmony 00:47:51.700 --> 00:47:53.300 And let the peace 00:47:53.300 --> 00:47:53.840 Of Christ 00:47:53.840 --> 00:47:54.960 Rule in your hearts 00:47:54.960 --> 00:47:56.440 To which indeed 00:47:56.440 --> 00:47:57.200 You are called 00:47:57.200 --> 00:47:58.880 In one body 00:47:58.880 --> 00:48:00.519 And be 00:48:00.519 --> 00:48:01.800 Thankful 00:48:01.800 --> 00:48:03.360 You see there is 00:48:03.360 --> 00:48:04.460 The church looking after 00:48:04.460 --> 00:48:06.099 Looking after 00:48:06.099 --> 00:48:06.780 Its own members 00:48:06.780 --> 00:48:07.360 Looking after 00:48:07.360 --> 00:48:08.480 Those who belong 00:48:08.480 --> 00:48:09.920 As children 00:48:09.920 --> 00:48:10.940 To the church 00:48:10.940 --> 00:48:12.700 How they look out 00:48:12.700 --> 00:48:13.360 For each other 00:48:13.360 --> 00:48:15.000 How they actually 00:48:15.000 --> 00:48:15.880 Remember each other 00:48:15.880 --> 00:48:16.880 How they help each other 00:48:16.880 --> 00:48:18.480 How they forgive each other 00:48:18.480 --> 00:48:19.300 How they deal with 00:48:19.300 --> 00:48:19.760 One another 00:48:19.760 --> 00:48:21.179 On the pattern 00:48:21.179 --> 00:48:22.780 Of how God 00:48:22.780 --> 00:48:23.720 Has dealt with them 00:48:23.720 --> 00:48:25.280 How we all feel in this 00:48:25.280 --> 00:48:28.060 We all have to accept 00:48:28.060 --> 00:48:29.800 That we don't measure up 00:48:29.800 --> 00:48:30.980 As we should 00:48:30.980 --> 00:48:32.200 To these great words 00:48:32.200 --> 00:48:34.480 But it's our privilege 00:48:34.480 --> 00:48:34.940 Nevertheless 00:48:34.940 --> 00:48:35.800 To be here 00:48:35.800 --> 00:48:37.519 In order to try 00:48:37.519 --> 00:48:38.800 And as far as possible 00:48:38.800 --> 00:48:39.480 Do that 00:48:39.480 --> 00:48:42.019 And be the church of God 00:48:42.019 --> 00:48:43.820 And show ourselves 00:48:43.820 --> 00:48:44.140 To 00:48:44.140 --> 00:48:45.640 To 00:48:45.640 --> 00:48:46.760 To be 00:48:46.760 --> 00:48:48.200 In the privileged position 00:48:48.200 --> 00:48:49.500 Of being Zion's children 00:48:49.500 --> 00:48:52.440 Of whom glorious things 00:48:52.440 --> 00:48:53.680 Are said 00:48:53.679 --> 00:48:54.940 The church 00:48:54.940 --> 00:48:56.359 To put it another way 00:48:56.359 --> 00:48:57.799 Ought to be 00:48:57.799 --> 00:48:59.480 A safe place 00:48:59.480 --> 00:49:00.460 People think nowadays 00:49:00.460 --> 00:49:01.599 And speak nowadays 00:49:01.599 --> 00:49:03.079 Of having a safe place 00:49:03.079 --> 00:49:04.559 Having a place 00:49:04.559 --> 00:49:05.799 Where they find safety 00:49:05.799 --> 00:49:07.659 Whether it's mental health issues 00:49:07.659 --> 00:49:08.679 Spiritual issues 00:49:08.679 --> 00:49:09.679 Physical issues 00:49:09.679 --> 00:49:11.059 Relationship issues 00:49:11.059 --> 00:49:11.440 Whatever 00:49:11.440 --> 00:49:12.759 But the church 00:49:12.759 --> 00:49:14.379 Must be a safe place 00:49:14.379 --> 00:49:15.980 And we must project 00:49:15.980 --> 00:49:17.539 That it is a safe place 00:49:17.539 --> 00:49:19.019 A place where people 00:49:19.019 --> 00:49:19.719 Will have 00:49:19.719 --> 00:49:22.500 Their own situation 00:49:22.500 --> 00:49:23.259 Dealt with 00:49:23.259 --> 00:49:23.880 Honestly 00:49:23.880 --> 00:49:25.079 Seriously 00:49:25.079 --> 00:49:26.179 Lovingly 00:49:26.179 --> 00:49:27.039 Tactfully 00:49:27.039 --> 00:49:28.179 Patiently 00:49:28.179 --> 00:49:29.920 All those things 00:49:29.920 --> 00:49:31.820 This is 00:49:31.820 --> 00:49:34.420 The mothering qualities 00:49:34.420 --> 00:49:35.159 Of Zion 00:49:35.159 --> 00:49:36.960 Of the people of God 00:49:36.960 --> 00:49:37.420 Together 00:49:37.420 --> 00:49:39.420 As we seek to 00:49:39.420 --> 00:49:40.099 Grow 00:49:40.099 --> 00:49:41.360 In being nourished 00:49:41.360 --> 00:49:42.420 Through God's truth 00:49:42.420 --> 00:49:44.380 And thirdly 00:49:44.380 --> 00:49:44.840 It's a city 00:49:44.840 --> 00:49:45.800 Of life 00:49:45.800 --> 00:49:46.579 And joy 00:49:46.579 --> 00:49:48.840 He says here 00:49:48.840 --> 00:49:49.440 In verse 7 00:49:49.440 --> 00:49:51.500 Singers and dancers 00:49:51.500 --> 00:49:52.139 Alike 00:49:52.139 --> 00:49:52.960 Say 00:49:52.960 --> 00:49:54.360 All my springs 00:49:54.360 --> 00:49:55.780 Are in with you 00:49:55.780 --> 00:49:56.420 There's a picture 00:49:56.420 --> 00:49:56.680 Of that 00:49:56.680 --> 00:49:57.740 Part of the imagery 00:49:57.739 --> 00:49:59.219 It's a picture 00:49:59.219 --> 00:50:00.539 Of a joyous 00:50:00.539 --> 00:50:01.519 Celebration 00:50:01.519 --> 00:50:02.339 Of life 00:50:02.339 --> 00:50:03.779 Talks there 00:50:03.779 --> 00:50:05.000 About wellsprings 00:50:05.000 --> 00:50:07.000 All my wellsprings 00:50:07.000 --> 00:50:07.699 Are in you 00:50:07.699 --> 00:50:09.699 Just like you find 00:50:09.699 --> 00:50:10.399 A spring 00:50:10.399 --> 00:50:11.039 Or a fountain 00:50:11.039 --> 00:50:12.139 Bubbling up 00:50:12.139 --> 00:50:13.099 Through the ground 00:50:13.099 --> 00:50:14.519 And providing 00:50:14.519 --> 00:50:15.759 It's refreshing water 00:50:15.759 --> 00:50:16.179 So 00:50:16.179 --> 00:50:17.539 David is saying 00:50:17.539 --> 00:50:17.799 So 00:50:17.799 --> 00:50:19.159 The psalmist 00:50:19.159 --> 00:50:19.639 Is saying 00:50:19.639 --> 00:50:21.179 This is how it is 00:50:21.179 --> 00:50:22.259 With the church 00:50:22.259 --> 00:50:24.419 All my wellsprings 00:50:24.419 --> 00:50:25.219 Are in you 00:50:25.219 --> 00:50:26.299 What does he mean 00:50:26.299 --> 00:50:26.839 By that? 00:50:26.840 --> 00:50:27.660 Well he means 00:50:27.660 --> 00:50:28.980 That God 00:50:28.980 --> 00:50:30.100 Actually provides 00:50:30.100 --> 00:50:30.740 The water 00:50:30.740 --> 00:50:31.420 Of life 00:50:31.420 --> 00:50:32.300 For us 00:50:32.300 --> 00:50:33.620 But it comes 00:50:33.620 --> 00:50:34.000 To us 00:50:34.000 --> 00:50:35.220 Via his church 00:50:35.220 --> 00:50:36.640 It comes to us 00:50:36.640 --> 00:50:37.500 Through his word 00:50:37.500 --> 00:50:38.460 Through his word 00:50:38.460 --> 00:50:38.860 Preached 00:50:38.860 --> 00:50:39.440 Through his word 00:50:39.440 --> 00:50:39.840 Read 00:50:39.840 --> 00:50:40.460 Through his word 00:50:40.460 --> 00:50:40.960 Sung 00:50:40.960 --> 00:50:41.860 And through the 00:50:41.860 --> 00:50:42.600 Sacraments of 00:50:42.600 --> 00:50:43.160 Baptism 00:50:43.160 --> 00:50:43.820 And the Lord's 00:50:43.820 --> 00:50:44.160 Supper 00:50:44.160 --> 00:50:46.519 The springs 00:50:46.519 --> 00:50:47.019 If you like 00:50:47.019 --> 00:50:48.740 Situated in the church 00:50:48.740 --> 00:50:51.420 Through which God 00:50:51.420 --> 00:50:52.360 Brings nourishment 00:50:52.360 --> 00:50:53.920 To our souls 00:50:53.920 --> 00:50:54.480 And here is 00:50:54.480 --> 00:50:55.120 The psalmist's 00:50:55.120 --> 00:50:55.620 Confession 00:50:55.619 --> 00:50:57.099 All my 00:50:57.099 --> 00:50:58.420 Wellsprings 00:50:58.420 --> 00:50:59.039 Are in you 00:50:59.039 --> 00:50:59.779 Singers and 00:50:59.779 --> 00:51:00.739 Dancers alike 00:51:00.739 --> 00:51:01.400 Say this 00:51:01.400 --> 00:51:02.859 Doesn't mean that 00:51:02.859 --> 00:51:04.019 Stornway Free Church 00:51:04.019 --> 00:51:04.699 Is going to introduce 00:51:04.699 --> 00:51:05.819 Dancing 00:51:05.819 --> 00:51:06.599 Into its 00:51:06.599 --> 00:51:08.279 Services 00:51:08.280 --> 00:51:10.120 This is just 00:51:10.120 --> 00:51:10.640 An imagery 00:51:10.640 --> 00:51:12.019 Of great 00:51:12.019 --> 00:51:13.180 And wonderful 00:51:13.180 --> 00:51:14.160 Celebration 00:51:14.160 --> 00:51:16.100 Singers and 00:51:16.100 --> 00:51:16.980 Dancers together 00:51:16.980 --> 00:51:18.519 As they celebrate 00:51:18.519 --> 00:51:19.360 Something that is 00:51:19.360 --> 00:51:20.300 Really meaningful 00:51:20.300 --> 00:51:20.900 And express 00:51:20.900 --> 00:51:22.019 Such great joy 00:51:22.019 --> 00:51:22.780 Well he's saying 00:51:22.780 --> 00:51:24.060 This is what 00:51:24.060 --> 00:51:25.100 Characterizes 00:51:25.100 --> 00:51:25.960 Zion 00:51:25.960 --> 00:51:26.720 This is what must 00:51:26.720 --> 00:51:27.880 Characterize the church 00:51:27.880 --> 00:51:29.480 It is a place 00:51:29.480 --> 00:51:31.040 Of great joy 00:51:31.040 --> 00:51:32.100 A place where there's 00:51:32.100 --> 00:51:33.800 Vibrancy of life 00:51:33.800 --> 00:51:34.960 As God 00:51:34.960 --> 00:51:36.260 Fuels or 00:51:36.260 --> 00:51:37.019 Provides 00:51:37.019 --> 00:51:37.800 The streams 00:51:37.800 --> 00:51:38.560 Of blessing 00:51:38.560 --> 00:51:39.340 The streams 00:51:39.340 --> 00:51:39.840 Of life 00:51:39.840 --> 00:51:41.039 Through the church 00:51:41.039 --> 00:51:41.620 Through the 00:51:41.620 --> 00:51:43.140 Ordinances he's 00:51:43.140 --> 00:51:44.120 Given to his church 00:51:44.120 --> 00:51:44.960 And of course we come 00:51:44.960 --> 00:51:46.260 This Lord's 00:51:46.260 --> 00:51:47.260 Day to remember 00:51:47.260 --> 00:51:48.140 That God willing 00:51:48.140 --> 00:51:49.320 Another communion 00:51:49.320 --> 00:51:50.560 Is anticipated 00:51:50.560 --> 00:51:51.640 Next Lord's Day 00:51:51.640 --> 00:51:52.860 So here we are 00:51:52.860 --> 00:51:53.280 Today 00:51:53.280 --> 00:51:55.080 At one of the 00:51:55.080 --> 00:51:55.920 Wellsprings 00:51:55.920 --> 00:51:57.560 In the gospel 00:51:57.560 --> 00:51:59.200 In the word 00:51:59.200 --> 00:51:59.780 Preached 00:51:59.780 --> 00:52:01.519 And here we are 00:52:01.519 --> 00:52:02.060 Looking forward 00:52:02.060 --> 00:52:02.680 Next week 00:52:02.680 --> 00:52:04.160 To another one 00:52:04.160 --> 00:52:04.800 At the Lord's 00:52:04.800 --> 00:52:05.080 Supper 00:52:05.080 --> 00:52:06.300 Along with the word 00:52:06.300 --> 00:52:08.400 May we say 00:52:08.400 --> 00:52:09.760 With the psalmist 00:52:09.760 --> 00:52:12.040 All my wellsprings 00:52:12.040 --> 00:52:12.960 Are in you 00:52:12.960 --> 00:52:14.800 The church I belong to 00:52:14.800 --> 00:52:15.880 The church of Christ 00:52:15.880 --> 00:52:17.380 The church of God 00:52:17.380 --> 00:52:19.340 May our mind be 00:52:19.340 --> 00:52:20.519 Truly set 00:52:20.519 --> 00:52:21.260 Believingly 00:52:21.260 --> 00:52:21.920 And longingly 00:52:21.920 --> 00:52:23.140 Upon God 00:52:23.140 --> 00:52:23.820 Blessing 00:52:23.820 --> 00:52:24.920 These wellsprings 00:52:24.920 --> 00:52:25.500 To us 00:52:25.500 --> 00:52:26.780 On us 00:52:26.780 --> 00:52:28.019 Drawing the water 00:52:28.019 --> 00:52:29.320 From these great 00:52:29.320 --> 00:52:30.559 Wells of salvation 00:52:30.559 --> 00:52:32.220 That through the church 00:52:32.220 --> 00:52:33.220 Come to be enjoyed 00:52:33.220 --> 00:52:34.320 By God's people 00:52:34.320 --> 00:52:36.720 You remember 00:52:36.720 --> 00:52:37.660 The woman of Samaria 00:52:37.660 --> 00:52:39.519 In John chapter 4 00:52:39.519 --> 00:52:42.120 Sitting there 00:52:42.120 --> 00:52:42.820 By the well 00:52:42.820 --> 00:52:44.000 And the Lord 00:52:44.000 --> 00:52:44.740 Comes along 00:52:44.740 --> 00:52:46.120 Enders into 00:52:46.120 --> 00:52:47.200 Conversation with her 00:52:47.200 --> 00:52:47.980 As only he could 00:52:47.980 --> 00:52:49.760 And eventually 00:52:49.760 --> 00:52:50.920 Draws her to the point 00:52:50.920 --> 00:52:51.860 Where he says to her 00:52:51.860 --> 00:52:53.360 When she mentioned 00:52:53.360 --> 00:52:53.940 The Messiah 00:52:53.940 --> 00:52:54.559 The Savior 00:52:54.559 --> 00:52:56.700 I who am speaking 00:52:56.700 --> 00:52:57.140 To you 00:52:57.140 --> 00:52:58.559 I am he 00:52:58.559 --> 00:53:02.920 And in the conversation 00:53:02.920 --> 00:53:03.539 She said 00:53:03.539 --> 00:53:04.480 Lord give me more 00:53:04.480 --> 00:53:05.279 Of this water 00:53:05.279 --> 00:53:07.059 So that I don't need 00:53:07.059 --> 00:53:07.519 To come here 00:53:07.519 --> 00:53:08.699 To draw water anymore 00:53:08.699 --> 00:53:10.380 She didn't quite follow 00:53:10.380 --> 00:53:10.940 What he was saying 00:53:10.940 --> 00:53:11.679 At that point 00:53:11.679 --> 00:53:13.480 And he said to her 00:53:13.480 --> 00:53:14.619 Whoever drinks 00:53:14.619 --> 00:53:15.699 Of this water 00:53:15.699 --> 00:53:16.679 That's the water 00:53:16.679 --> 00:53:17.299 Of this well 00:53:17.299 --> 00:53:18.340 This literal water 00:53:18.340 --> 00:53:19.239 Whoever drinks 00:53:19.239 --> 00:53:20.000 Of this water 00:53:20.000 --> 00:53:21.420 Shall thirst again 00:53:21.420 --> 00:53:23.840 But whoever drinks 00:53:23.840 --> 00:53:24.360 Of the water 00:53:24.360 --> 00:53:25.460 That I shall give him 00:53:25.460 --> 00:53:27.300 Shall never thirst 00:53:27.300 --> 00:53:29.599 But it will be in him 00:53:29.599 --> 00:53:31.940 A spring of water 00:53:31.940 --> 00:53:32.860 Welling up 00:53:32.860 --> 00:53:35.079 To eternal life 00:53:35.079 --> 00:53:38.079 I've mentioned 00:53:38.079 --> 00:53:38.940 Many times already 00:53:38.940 --> 00:53:40.300 A place that's 00:53:40.300 --> 00:53:41.360 Quite precious to myself 00:53:41.360 --> 00:53:42.340 A spring of water 00:53:42.340 --> 00:53:43.760 Bubbling up 00:53:43.760 --> 00:53:44.480 Through the sands 00:53:44.480 --> 00:53:45.380 Down at Airtongue 00:53:45.380 --> 00:53:46.240 Where I was brought up 00:53:46.240 --> 00:53:47.639 There last week 00:53:47.639 --> 00:53:47.920 In fact 00:53:47.920 --> 00:53:48.800 Went down just again 00:53:48.800 --> 00:53:49.320 To see it 00:53:49.320 --> 00:53:51.100 Despite the fact 00:53:51.100 --> 00:53:52.060 That for generations 00:53:52.060 --> 00:53:53.120 The sea has been 00:53:53.120 --> 00:53:53.700 Coming in 00:53:53.700 --> 00:53:54.539 To cover that 00:53:54.539 --> 00:53:55.680 Little spring of water 00:53:55.680 --> 00:53:57.120 Covers it up 00:53:57.120 --> 00:53:57.680 And then the sea 00:53:57.680 --> 00:53:58.360 Goes out again 00:53:58.360 --> 00:53:59.840 And still that water 00:53:59.840 --> 00:54:00.900 Keeps bubbling up 00:54:00.900 --> 00:54:02.860 And it's like that 00:54:02.860 --> 00:54:03.680 In your soul 00:54:03.680 --> 00:54:05.220 As a Christian today 00:54:05.220 --> 00:54:06.660 When you're in 00:54:06.660 --> 00:54:07.660 Covenant with Jesus 00:54:07.660 --> 00:54:09.340 When you're born again 00:54:09.340 --> 00:54:10.080 When your life 00:54:10.080 --> 00:54:11.240 Is secure in him 00:54:11.240 --> 00:54:12.680 Whatever things 00:54:12.680 --> 00:54:13.900 Wash over your life 00:54:13.900 --> 00:54:14.780 From time to time 00:54:14.780 --> 00:54:15.580 And let's face it 00:54:15.580 --> 00:54:17.039 There are many people 00:54:17.039 --> 00:54:17.640 Here who know 00:54:17.640 --> 00:54:18.560 Better than I do 00:54:18.559 --> 00:54:20.420 Of the sheer difficulties 00:54:20.420 --> 00:54:21.840 And challenges of life 00:54:21.840 --> 00:54:25.400 But whatever water 00:54:25.400 --> 00:54:26.980 Wash over you 00:54:26.980 --> 00:54:28.539 To cause distress 00:54:28.539 --> 00:54:29.299 And trauma 00:54:29.299 --> 00:54:29.960 And pain 00:54:29.960 --> 00:54:30.679 And challenge 00:54:30.679 --> 00:54:33.039 You will always find 00:54:33.039 --> 00:54:33.940 Where God places 00:54:33.940 --> 00:54:35.199 Spiritual life 00:54:35.199 --> 00:54:37.759 That it cannot 00:54:37.759 --> 00:54:38.820 Be extinguished 00:54:38.820 --> 00:54:41.659 It keeps welling up 00:54:41.659 --> 00:54:43.820 And I'm sure 00:54:43.820 --> 00:54:44.639 Most if not all 00:54:44.639 --> 00:54:45.099 Of you today 00:54:45.099 --> 00:54:45.599 Are thankful 00:54:45.599 --> 00:54:46.320 In some regard 00:54:46.320 --> 00:54:46.840 For that 00:54:46.840 --> 00:54:48.539 In some way or other 00:54:48.539 --> 00:54:50.099 That you can say 00:54:50.099 --> 00:54:50.579 Of your life 00:54:50.579 --> 00:54:50.880 Lord 00:54:50.880 --> 00:54:53.300 I'm so thankful 00:54:53.300 --> 00:54:54.320 That when things 00:54:54.320 --> 00:54:55.440 Were critical for me 00:54:55.440 --> 00:54:57.380 And when I faced 00:54:57.380 --> 00:54:58.400 A challenge 00:54:58.400 --> 00:54:59.279 That was far greater 00:54:59.279 --> 00:55:00.000 Than I could cope 00:55:00.000 --> 00:55:00.659 With myself 00:55:00.659 --> 00:55:03.300 Your spring of water 00:55:03.300 --> 00:55:04.000 Kept flowing 00:55:04.000 --> 00:55:06.920 Your spring of life 00:55:06.920 --> 00:55:07.820 In my soul 00:55:07.820 --> 00:55:09.739 Kept bubbling up 00:55:09.739 --> 00:55:11.599 Kept feeding me 00:55:11.599 --> 00:55:13.840 Kept me in life 00:55:13.840 --> 00:55:17.400 All my wellsprings 00:55:17.400 --> 00:55:18.940 Are in you 00:55:18.940 --> 00:55:19.579 The psalmist 00:55:19.579 --> 00:55:20.039 Is saying 00:55:20.039 --> 00:55:22.360 Now you have been 00:55:22.360 --> 00:55:22.700 Sitting 00:55:22.700 --> 00:55:24.840 By a well 00:55:24.840 --> 00:55:25.340 Today 00:55:25.340 --> 00:55:27.400 Where the water 00:55:27.400 --> 00:55:28.019 Of life 00:55:28.019 --> 00:55:29.380 Is placed 00:55:29.380 --> 00:55:30.079 By God 00:55:30.079 --> 00:55:31.840 You've been sitting 00:55:31.840 --> 00:55:32.480 At the well 00:55:32.480 --> 00:55:33.160 Of the gospel 00:55:33.159 --> 00:55:35.219 You've been sitting 00:55:35.219 --> 00:55:35.859 Beside 00:55:35.859 --> 00:55:37.139 One of the 00:55:37.139 --> 00:55:38.519 Wonderful provisions 00:55:38.519 --> 00:55:39.319 Of God 00:55:39.319 --> 00:55:41.980 One of these 00:55:41.980 --> 00:55:42.819 Wellsprings 00:55:42.819 --> 00:55:44.239 That he has placed 00:55:44.239 --> 00:55:45.039 In his church 00:55:45.039 --> 00:55:48.460 But it's one thing 00:55:48.460 --> 00:55:49.099 To be sitting 00:55:49.099 --> 00:55:50.699 Near the well 00:55:50.699 --> 00:55:53.119 That's another thing 00:55:53.119 --> 00:55:53.940 To drink of it 00:55:53.940 --> 00:55:56.899 And I hope today 00:55:56.899 --> 00:55:57.899 That no one here 00:55:57.899 --> 00:56:00.199 Has left this building 00:56:00.199 --> 00:56:00.980 Without drinking 00:56:00.980 --> 00:56:01.659 Of Christ 00:56:01.659 --> 00:56:04.000 Without drinking 00:56:04.000 --> 00:56:05.219 These precious waters 00:56:05.219 --> 00:56:06.880 These wellsprings 00:56:06.880 --> 00:56:08.079 In the gospel 00:56:08.079 --> 00:56:08.800 That he's placed 00:56:08.800 --> 00:56:09.519 In the church 00:56:09.519 --> 00:56:11.740 That's why we're here 00:56:11.740 --> 00:56:14.059 That's what it means 00:56:14.059 --> 00:56:14.380 To us 00:56:14.380 --> 00:56:15.699 To belong to the church 00:56:15.699 --> 00:56:18.320 It's where God 00:56:18.320 --> 00:56:20.619 Flows life 00:56:20.619 --> 00:56:21.740 Into our souls 00:56:21.740 --> 00:56:25.360 And you notice 00:56:25.360 --> 00:56:27.179 That the title 00:56:27.179 --> 00:56:27.840 Of the song 00:56:27.840 --> 00:56:29.460 The title of the psalm 00:56:29.460 --> 00:56:30.880 Is simply 00:56:30.880 --> 00:56:31.360 A psalm 00:56:31.360 --> 00:56:31.860 Of the sons 00:56:31.860 --> 00:56:32.400 Of Korah 00:56:32.400 --> 00:56:33.840 And then it says 00:56:33.840 --> 00:56:34.960 A song 00:56:34.960 --> 00:56:37.700 Very simple 00:56:37.700 --> 00:56:39.000 But very profoundly 00:56:39.000 --> 00:56:39.579 Important 00:56:39.579 --> 00:56:40.880 Because all the 00:56:40.880 --> 00:56:41.660 Great truths 00:56:41.660 --> 00:56:42.300 That we have 00:56:42.300 --> 00:56:43.260 In this psalm 00:56:43.260 --> 00:56:44.519 The great truths 00:56:44.519 --> 00:56:45.720 About God's city 00:56:45.720 --> 00:56:46.380 God's church 00:56:46.380 --> 00:56:47.039 Being a city 00:56:47.039 --> 00:56:48.000 Well founded 00:56:48.000 --> 00:56:49.760 Well placed 00:56:49.760 --> 00:56:50.440 And situated 00:56:50.440 --> 00:56:51.320 And stable 00:56:51.320 --> 00:56:52.700 The great truths 00:56:52.700 --> 00:56:53.680 Of the church 00:56:53.680 --> 00:56:54.400 Being a place 00:56:54.400 --> 00:56:55.660 Where people 00:56:55.660 --> 00:56:56.440 Are nourished 00:56:56.440 --> 00:56:57.300 Spiritually 00:56:57.300 --> 00:56:58.559 In the gospel 00:56:58.559 --> 00:57:00.320 There's great truths 00:57:00.320 --> 00:57:01.600 About a place 00:57:01.600 --> 00:57:02.240 Of joy 00:57:02.240 --> 00:57:02.980 And of 00:57:02.980 --> 00:57:05.019 Vibrancy 00:57:05.019 --> 00:57:05.700 Of life 00:57:05.700 --> 00:57:07.740 God is saying 00:57:07.740 --> 00:57:09.140 That's for you 00:57:09.140 --> 00:57:10.460 To sing about 00:57:10.460 --> 00:57:12.940 That's for you 00:57:12.940 --> 00:57:13.500 To channel 00:57:13.500 --> 00:57:14.840 Into your praises 00:57:14.840 --> 00:57:15.740 Of God 00:57:15.740 --> 00:57:18.120 Because that's why 00:57:18.120 --> 00:57:18.800 It's here called 00:57:18.800 --> 00:57:20.100 A song 00:57:20.099 --> 00:57:22.319 And as we come 00:57:22.319 --> 00:57:23.659 In a few moments 00:57:23.659 --> 00:57:24.980 To our final singing 00:57:24.980 --> 00:57:25.420 Today 00:57:25.420 --> 00:57:26.659 To conclude 00:57:26.659 --> 00:57:27.400 This service 00:57:27.400 --> 00:57:30.519 Sing 00:57:30.519 --> 00:57:33.280 Of the privilege 00:57:33.280 --> 00:57:33.300 Of the privilege 00:57:33.300 --> 00:57:33.940 Of belonging 00:57:33.940 --> 00:57:34.759 To the church 00:57:34.759 --> 00:57:37.400 Doesn't matter 00:57:37.400 --> 00:57:38.119 What you might say 00:57:38.119 --> 00:57:39.139 Your quality of voice 00:57:39.139 --> 00:57:39.340 Is 00:57:39.340 --> 00:57:40.079 Or even if you think 00:57:40.079 --> 00:57:40.800 You don't have a voice 00:57:40.800 --> 00:57:41.219 At all 00:57:41.219 --> 00:57:41.579 Of any 00:57:41.579 --> 00:57:42.840 Of any quality 00:57:42.840 --> 00:57:44.599 Sing it 00:57:44.599 --> 00:57:47.179 Let it out 00:57:47.179 --> 00:57:49.400 Make sure 00:57:49.400 --> 00:57:50.480 God hears you 00:57:50.480 --> 00:57:50.860 Singing 00:57:50.860 --> 00:57:52.940 Of what it means 00:57:52.940 --> 00:57:53.219 To you 00:57:53.219 --> 00:57:53.820 To belong 00:57:53.820 --> 00:57:55.980 To God's church 00:57:55.980 --> 00:57:58.039 To God's city 00:57:58.039 --> 00:58:00.300 To God's mother city 00:58:00.300 --> 00:58:02.480 To God's place 00:58:02.480 --> 00:58:03.079 Of joy 00:58:03.079 --> 00:58:04.900 And celebration 00:58:04.900 --> 00:58:06.619 Of life 00:58:06.619 --> 00:58:08.360 May God bless 00:58:08.360 --> 00:58:09.860 His word to us 00:58:09.860 --> 00:58:10.539 Once again 00:58:10.539 --> 00:58:12.539 We're singing now 00:58:12.539 --> 00:58:13.139 In conclusion 00:58:13.139 --> 00:58:14.920 From Psalm 46 00:58:14.920 --> 00:58:18.159 Psalm 46a 00:58:18.159 --> 00:58:18.960 In the Sing Psalms 00:58:18.960 --> 00:58:20.199 Version of Psalm 46 00:58:20.199 --> 00:58:22.379 That's on page 59 00:58:22.379 --> 00:58:25.079 Verses 4 to 7 00:58:25.079 --> 00:58:31.179 A river flows 00:58:31.179 --> 00:58:31.779 Whose streams 00:58:31.779 --> 00:58:32.719 Delight the city 00:58:32.719 --> 00:58:33.559 Of our God 00:58:33.559 --> 00:58:35.059 The holy place 00:58:35.059 --> 00:58:35.799 In which the Lord 00:58:35.799 --> 00:58:36.419 Most High 00:58:36.419 --> 00:58:37.339 Has his abode 00:58:37.339 --> 00:58:38.819 God is within 00:58:38.819 --> 00:58:39.719 His holy place 00:58:39.719 --> 00:58:40.939 The city will not yield 00:58:40.939 --> 00:58:42.599 For God will come 00:58:42.599 --> 00:58:43.539 At break of day 00:58:43.539 --> 00:58:45.199 To be her help 00:58:45.199 --> 00:58:46.599 And shield 00:58:46.599 --> 00:58:47.539 On to verse 7 00:58:47.539 --> 00:58:48.399 The Lord Almighty 00:58:48.399 --> 00:58:49.199 Is with us 00:58:49.199 --> 00:58:50.319 To strengthen 00:58:50.319 --> 00:58:51.159 And sustain 00:58:51.159 --> 00:58:53.099 For Jacob's God 00:58:53.099 --> 00:58:54.339 Our strong defence 00:58:54.339 --> 00:58:55.159 And fortress 00:58:55.159 --> 00:58:56.960 Will remain 00:58:56.960 --> 00:58:58.179 These verses 00:58:58.179 --> 00:58:58.980 Then in conclusion 00:58:58.980 --> 00:58:59.759 Again we stand 00:58:59.759 --> 00:59:00.159 To sing 00:59:00.159 --> 00:59:06.259 A river 00:59:06.259 --> 00:59:09.439 Close to 00:59:09.439 --> 00:59:11.099 Saints 00:59:11.099 --> 00:59:13.259 Delight 00:59:13.259 --> 00:59:16.259 The city 00:59:16.260 --> 00:59:20.220 The city of the God 00:59:20.220 --> 00:59:26.220 The holy place 00:59:26.220 --> 00:59:30.960 In which the Lord 00:59:30.960 --> 00:59:34.000 Most high 00:59:34.000 --> 00:59:38.220 Hath is upon 00:59:38.219 --> 00:59:44.179 God is within 00:59:44.179 --> 00:59:46.179 God is within 00:59:46.179 --> 00:59:50.179 His holy place 00:59:50.179 --> 00:59:52.179 The city 00:59:52.179 --> 00:59:57.179 Will not yield 00:59:57.179 --> 01:00:03.179 For God will come 01:00:03.179 --> 01:00:09.139 The kingdom's day 01:00:09.139 --> 01:00:11.139 To be her help 01:00:11.139 --> 01:00:13.139 To be her help 01:00:13.139 --> 01:00:15.139 And shield 01:00:15.139 --> 01:00:17.139 The nations are in disarray 01:00:17.139 --> 01:00:21.139 The kingdom's day 01:00:21.139 --> 01:00:31.099 The kingdom's day 01:00:31.099 --> 01:00:35.099 The kingdom's disappear 01:00:35.099 --> 01:00:37.059 God speaks 01:00:37.059 --> 01:00:39.059 The kingdom's day 01:00:39.059 --> 01:00:41.059 The kingdom's day 01:00:41.059 --> 01:00:43.059 The kingdom's day 01:00:43.059 --> 01:00:44.059 The kingdom's day 01:00:44.059 --> 01:00:56.019 God is within 01:00:56.019 --> 01:00:58.019 The kingdom's day 01:00:58.019 --> 01:00:59.980 Lord Almighty 01:00:59.980 --> 01:01:01.980 The kingdom's day 01:01:01.980 --> 01:01:03.980 The kingdom's day 01:01:03.980 --> 01:01:05.940 The kingdom's day 01:01:05.940 --> 01:01:09.940 The kingdom's day 01:01:09.940 --> 01:01:11.940 The kingdom's day 01:01:11.940 --> 01:01:13.940 The kingdom's day 01:01:13.940 --> 01:01:16.940 For Jacob's day 01:01:16.940 --> 01:01:18.900 The kingdom's day 01:01:18.900 --> 01:01:20.900 The kingdom's day 01:01:20.900 --> 01:01:22.900 The kingdom's day 01:01:22.900 --> 01:01:24.900 The kingdom's day 01:01:24.900 --> 01:01:26.900 And fortress 01:01:26.900 --> 01:01:31.900 Will remain 01:01:31.900 --> 01:01:35.039 After the benediction 01:01:35.039 --> 01:01:36.000 I'll go to the main door 01:01:36.000 --> 01:01:36.579 This morning 01:01:36.579 --> 01:01:38.880 Now may the grace 01:01:38.880 --> 01:01:40.200 Of the Lord Jesus Christ 01:01:40.200 --> 01:01:41.599 The love of God the Father 01:01:41.599 --> 01:01:42.679 And the communion 01:01:42.679 --> 01:01:43.700 Of the Holy Spirit 01:01:43.700 --> 01:01:44.720 Be with you now 01:01:44.720 --> 01:01:46.039 And evermore 01:01:46.039 --> 01:01:46.800 Amen 01:01:46.940 --> 01:01:51.539 Amen 01:01:51.539 --> 01:01:53.780 Amen 01:01:53.780 --> 01:02:09.780 Amen 01:02:14.480 --> 01:02:15.079 Amen 01:02:15.079 --> 01:02:16.400 Amen 01:02:16.400 --> 01:02:16.880 Amen 01:02:16.880 --> 01:02:46.860 Thank you.