Following are my message notes for the introduction message to the series:
Eucharisteo: Fully Alive. Here. Now.
Following are the questions this teaching series investigates:
Is there a way for me to experience the abundant life of Jesus Christ all day, every day? Can I be fully alive, here, now?
MCA Church answers with a resounding YES! And the pathway to this promise is Holy Communion.
MCA Church, recognizing the priority and power of Holy Communion, invites worshippers to the Lord’s Table in every weekend worship experience.
How does a piece of bread and a cup of juice become something of gigantic value in our daily lives? What is that added value?
Within the Holy Communion experience is a component of the mystery of Christian life and faith.
• 1 Timothy 3:9
• 1 Timothy 3:16
Mystery, in the Bible, is different from mystery today.
“The NT use of the term mystery has reference to some operation or plan of God hitherto unrevealed. It does not carry the idea of a secret to be withheld, but of one to be published…The term mystery, moreover, comprehends not only a previously hidden truth, presently divulged, but one that contains a supernatural element that still remains in spite of the revelation.” The New Unger’s Bible Dictionary
The core experience of Holy Communion is the giving of thanks. Mark 14: 22-25
The giving of thanks, in Mark 14:23 is the Greek word, eucharisteo.
Eucharisteo (giving thanks) is closely related to, in the original language, grace and joy.
Is there a way for me to experience the abundant life of Jesus Christ all day, every day? Can I be fully alive, here, now?
The Bible declares, “YES!” In a three-worded chord that is not easily broken we experience the abundant life of Jesus Christ.
Eucharisteo Thankfulness Colossians 3:17
Charis Grace Romans 5:2
Chara Joy 1 Peter 1:8
In our response time today, we will be singing “Thank You.” The lyrics include twelve different things, specifically mentioned, for which we are thankful.
We are confident that God has spoken to you through the worship, the friendships, and the presentation of the Bible message. This is now your time to respond to God.
Will you respond by placing your trust in Jesus for salvation? If so, at the cross say a prayer of commitment to Jesus and leave a note saying you have done so.
Will you respond by initiating thanksgiving? If so, at the cross say a prayer of thanksgiving and leave a note of thanks.
As you receive the bread and juice of Holy Communion, allow your heart to fill with deep appreciation.