November 16, 2025
You can find the order of worship and songs here.
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We often meet people who identify as "spiritual but not religious." But what exactly do they mean by this? Roughly, they are saying that they have a personal relationship with God. However, they will not put up with any demands made upon them because they do not recognize any other authority than their own whims. In fact, they are saying "I will not be told I am wrong. I disagree that I need to change. I reject the notion that I need to submit to anyone." That is, "spiritual but not religious" is the hackneyed mantra of the man who lives with the delusion that he is at the center of the universe.
However, true spirituality according to the Bible is very different. For example, consider Hebrews 10:19–25. "Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus … let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith … Let us hold fast the confession of our hope with out wavering…" The author of Hebrews affirms the believer's personal relationship with God established by the blood of Jesus. That personal relationship has an immediate effect of drawing the believer near to God. Whatever else he means by this, at the very least he means that the believers draw near God in worship. After all, no one actually knows God who does not feel the deep longing to worship.
Also, that personal relationship with God effected by Jesus' blood can be described in terms of its doctrinal content. We must "hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering". And, of course, to say "yes" to something necessarily means saying "no" to something else. When we confess something to be true, we also confess its opposite to be false.
Lastly, this personal relationship with God through Jesus is not a solitary endeavor, but a shared life with other believers. "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another…" That is, no one is truly spiritual who does not actively and persistently seek to be a part of Christ's church. This is the only kind of spirituality that matters to God.
Do you see it? What so many carelessly dismiss as "religion" is, in fact, what Hebrews 10 describes as absolutely non-negotiable matters for the true believer. It means to be engaged in active worship, with a firm commitment to doctrinal fidelity, and to share life with other believers in the church of Jesus Christ.
Are you spiritual in a way that matters to God?
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Growth Resources
This year: Please see the full list of 2025 books as well as Bible reading plans on our church webpage.
In November we are reading "Philippians (Reformed Expository Commentary)" by Dennis Johnson.
This week: We are reflecting upon Shorter Catechism Qs. 57–60.
Everyday: Noted pastor and theologian Sinclair Ferguson posts a short reflection every day, each around 5 minutes long. "Things Unseen" cover various aspects of the Christian life, worship, and theological topics in a very accessible and edifying way. We encourage you to incorporate this into your daily life. Please see this page for more information. There you will find links to various podcast platforms as well as YouTube page.
Upcoming Events and Notices
November 16 (Lord's Day): Please join us for Sunday School lesson from "Essential Truths of the Christian Faith" Ch. 64, "Faith."
November 19 (Wednesday 7 PM): Please join us on Zoom as we study Esther chapter 3. Meeting ID: 884 9003 6844. Passcode: 5sUpUi.
December 14 (Lord’s Day): Please join us for Advent Carols and Celebration after the worship service.
Thank you for your continued support of Grace Fallbrook (PCA). Your loving support makes the proclamation of the gospel and the building up of the saints possible. Please visit gracefallbrook.church/give and click on "Give Online Now." You will be directed to the PCA Foundation where you can give towards Grace Fallbrook (PCA).