Author: Bryan Gibson

Weekly Bulletin
August 29, 2021

Giving “Par Excellence”
The Macedonian Churches
They gave “SACRIFICIALLY” (2 Cor. 8:2-3a).
Despite being in affliction and experiencing poverty themselves, they gave “beyond their ability.”
They weren’t necessarily expected to go that far—see 2 Cor. 8:12-13.
They gave “JOYFULLY” (2 Cor. 8: 2).
They discovered “the joy of giving.”
They learned it was “more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Joyful or cheerful giving is the kind God loves— “for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).
They gave “VOLUNTARILY” (2 Cor. 8:3).
They were “freely willing.”
“For if there is first a willing mind,” one tends to give as he or she should (2 Cor. 8:12).
It’s important to move beyond the “have to” stage to the “freely willing” stage (2 Cor. 9:7).
They gave “PERSISTENTLY” (2 Co 8:4).
As Paul says, “imploring us with much urgency.”
They wouldn’t take “no” for an answer, nor did they look for an easy way out!
They gave “THEMSELVES” (2 Co 8: 5).
Perhaps this explains how they were able to give as they did! They “first gave themselves to the Lord.”
When a person does this, they do not worry about “the cost of giving,” because they believe the promise of Jesus in Matthew 6:33—“seek first the kingdom of God and all these things shall be added to you.”
Having given themselves first to the Lord, it is only natural they would give “then to us (others)” (see 8:5 again).
By showing this love for their brethren, they showed themselves to be true disciples (John 13:34-35), and true lovers of God (1 Jn. 4:20-21).

by Bryan Gibson

Beautiful Feet
by Bryan Gibson
“How beautiful are the feet of those who...develop cures for terminal diseases?” Nope. “How beautiful are the feet of those who...create the latest technological advance?” Nope. “How beautiful are the feet of those who...feed the hungry?” Nope. These people are all doing wonderful things, but NO ONE is doing ANYTHING more important than preaching the gospel. It is the greatest work, fulfilling the greatest need, and offering the greatest hope. “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace...” (Romans 10:15).
Honor God
by Bryan Gibson
“Honor your father and mother” (Ephesians 6:2), yes, but first and foremost, honor God. Honor God by speaking to others about Him (Acts 4:18-20), by speaking only what He has revealed (John 7:14, 16-18; 8:28; 12:49-50; 14:24; 17:8), by obeying everything He commands (Matthew 28:20; Acts 3:22), by not defiling the temple in which He dwells (1 Corinthians 6:13-20; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8), by honoring others before yourself (Romans 12:10; Philippians 2:3), by honoring those in authority (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17), by giving special honor to those who honor Him (Psalms 15:4; Philippians 2:29-30; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13; 1 Timothy 5:17), by avoiding things that even appear dishonorable (2 Corinthians 8:16-21); by confessing your sin—by saying He is right and you are wrong (Joshua 7:19).

Contact Information
	P.O. Box 680872 / Prattville, AL 36067
	(334) 365-5887 / (334) 868-0801
	prattmont@gmail.com / prattmontchurchofchrist.org

Phone Numbers

E-Mail Address
Web Address
We

Mailing Address

The Prattmont Church of Christ is just what the name suggests, a church that belongs to Christ. We are not a denomination; we are simply a group of Christians trying very hard to practice the teachings of our Head, Jesus Christ. The New Testament offers a complete pattern for what each local church should be like—its organization, its worship, its work, etc. We are committed to following that pattern. We cordially invite you to attend our services. We would also welcome any comments or questions about this bulletin.

TIMES OF SERVICES:
Sunday
Bible Classes………...9 A.M.
Worship 10:00 A.M.
Worship/Bible Study..5 P.M.
Wednesday:
Bible Study 7:00 P.M.