In the “livingStone Church Worship Dec.17, 2023” video, you will be transported into an atmosphere of music, worship, and prayer. The video begins with lively music and applause, setting the tone for an uplifting experience. Chris, the speaker, shares a compelling story about a musician named Keith Ellison who visited their church and found faith in Jesus. The focus then shifts to the significance of Jesus leaving heaven to come to earth and the journey to the manger. You will be reminded of the strategic nature of salvation and how it is accessible to anyone, regardless of their past mistakes. By the end of the video, you will be encouraged to recognize your need for salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and to have a mindset of serving others. The speaker also shares announcements about upcoming events and wishes viewers a Merry Christmas.
LivingStone Church Worship Dec.17, 2023
Welcome to the LivingStone Church Worship video for December 17, 2023! We are so glad you could join us today as we gather together to worship and grow in our faith. This video captures the essence of our worship service, featuring music, prayer, an inspiring message, and a heartwarming story. So sit back, relax, and get ready to be uplifted and encouraged in your walk with Christ.
Music and Applause
The video begins with music and applause, setting the tone for a joyful and lively worship experience. As the music plays, you can feel the energy and excitement in the room, as the congregation comes together to lift their voices and praise the Lord. The atmosphere is filled with joy and anticipation as we prepare our hearts to worship God.
Start of the video
As the music comes to a close, the video transitions to the start of the worship service. The camera pans across the room, capturing the smiling faces of those in attendance. You can feel the sense of community and togetherness as we gather as a church family to worship and grow in our faith.
Welcoming the viewers
A warm and friendly voice welcomes the viewers to the LivingStone Church Worship video. The speaker expresses gratitude for their presence and excitement for the worship experience that is about to unfold. It is clear that the viewers are considered part of the church family, and their presence is valued and appreciated.
Prayer and Worship Session
The video moves into a time of prayer and worship. The congregation is invited to bow their heads and hearts as the speaker leads in a prayer of thanksgiving and praise. The words are heartfelt and sincere, expressing gratitude for God’s love and grace. As the prayer concludes, the worship team leads the congregation in a time of singing praises to God. The room is filled with the beautiful sound of voices lifted in adoration and worship.
Story of Keith Ellison
The speaker, Chris, references a story about a musician named Keith Ellison. Keith visited LivingStone Church and later became a Christian. This story is truly inspiring, as it shows how God can work in the lives of anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. Chris shares how Keith’s visit to the church was a turning point in his life, leading to his conversion and a transformation in his music career.
Keith Ellison’s visit to the church
Keith Ellison, the bass player for the popular speed metal band Megadeth, walked into LivingStone Church one day while visiting his in-laws in the same town. The congregation was surprised and excited to have him join them in worship. This unexpected encounter led to a relationship between Keith and the church community that continues to this day.
Keith Ellison’s conversion to Christianity
During a lunch conversation with Chris, Keith shared his incredible story of how God had transformed his life. Keith spoke about the impact of experiencing God’s love and the change that had taken place in his life since he placed his faith in Christ. His conversion brought about a remarkable transformation that became evident not only to him but also to those around him. Keith became a powerful example of the grace and redemption found in Christ.
The Significance of Jesus’ Journey to the Manger
Chris takes a moment to reflect on the significance of Jesus leaving heaven to come to earth. This act of love and sacrifice is a crucial aspect of the Christmas story. Jesus willingly left the perfection of heaven to dwell among us, to experience the human condition, and ultimately to give His life for our salvation.
Jesus leaving heaven to come to earth
The speaker emphasizes the profound reality that Jesus, who is fully divine, chose to take on human form and enter a broken world. This act of humility and love demonstrates God’s desire to connect with us on a personal level, to experience our joys and sorrows, and to ultimately offer hope and redemption.
The journey to the manger
Chris paints a picture of the journey to the manger, highlighting the awe-inspiring nature of Jesus’ birth. The humble surroundings, the presence of shepherds, and the adoration of the wise men all contribute to the significance of this event. The manger symbolizes not only Jesus’ humble beginnings but also the hope and salvation He would bring to the world.
The Strategic Nature of Salvation
The speaker shifts the focus to the strategic nature of salvation, highlighting how it is available to anyone, no matter how messed up they think their life may be. This is illustrated through the example of the Apostle Paul, whose past actions were far from righteous.
Salvation available to anyone
The speaker emphasizes that salvation is not limited to a select few but is available to everyone. It is not contingent on one’s past, mistakes, or shortcomings. God’s grace extends to all who are willing to receive it, regardless of their background or circumstances.
No matter how messed up one’s life may be
The speaker uses Paul’s life as an illustration of how God’s grace can transform even the most broken and flawed individuals. Paul, formerly known as Saul, persecuted Christians before encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus. However, his encounter with Christ changed the trajectory of his life, and he became one of the most influential figures in the early Christian church.
The Example of the Apostle Paul
Chris delves deeper into the story of the Apostle Paul to highlight how God’s salvation is not contingent on our past actions or mistakes. Paul’s story serves as a powerful reminder that God can use anyone who is willing to surrender their lives to Him.
Paul’s past actions
Chris acknowledges that Paul’s past actions were far from honorable. He persecuted Christians, approved of their imprisonment and even participated in their executions. Despite this, God saw the potential in Paul and chose to use him for His glory.
Paul being saved and used by God
Chris highlights the transformation that took place in Paul’s life after his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. Paul went from being a persecutor of Christians to becoming one of the most influential figures in the early Christian church. His conversion serves as a testament to God’s redemptive power and His ability to use even the most unlikely individuals for His purposes.
Understanding Salvation
The speaker dives into a deeper understanding of salvation, highlighting its significance and purpose in our lives. Salvation is not merely a ticket to heaven but a rescue effort from the penalty of sin. It offers freedom from the consequences of our mistakes and leads to a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Rescue effort from the penalty of sin
Chris explains that salvation is God’s plan to rescue humanity from the consequences of sin. Sin separates us from God and leads to death and destruction. However, through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross, we can find forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
Leading to eternal life
Salvation not only offers forgiveness and reconciliation but also the promise of eternal life. Chris emphasizes that this gift is available to anyone who places their faith in Jesus Christ. It is not earned through good works or religious rituals but received through faith alone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the speaker wishes the viewers a Merry Christmas and expresses gratitude for their presence and participation in the worship service. The video comes to a close, leaving the viewers with a renewed sense of hope, joy, and inspiration. The message of salvation and redemption resonates deeply, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own journey and invite Jesus into their lives.
As the video ends, announcements about upcoming events, such as small groups, a Christmas Eve service, youth group activities, and opportunities to give towards building a new facility, are shared. The speaker concludes by encouraging viewers to give generously through the offering boxes and wishing them a Merry Christmas.
We hope that this LivingStone Church Worship video has been a source of encouragement and inspiration for you. May you carry the message of salvation and the love of Jesus with you throughout the Christmas season and beyond.