January 25, 2026

You can find the order of worship and songs here.

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There is sometimes a tendency to look at the first century Christian church through rose-colored glasses. "Everything was perfect back then," we say to ourselves, "and the problem with the church today is that it is so different from the first century church." One wonders if people who say such things have ever read the New Testament.

Paul's first century letters to the Corinthian church shows significant problems within the church. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:10 "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment." A picture then soon emerges of a church divided into different factions because they lost sight of Jesus and his cross.

But how could they make such a fundamental mistake of losing sight of Jesus and his cross? At first it happens imperceptibly. We might get bored with the proclamation of Christ and him crucified. And as we lose interest, other things begin to appear far more interesting and important. Soon, what began imperceptibly becomes the most notable thing — the absence of Jesus in the church. To be sure, we will still mention Jesus and call ourselves "Christians." But in truth the heart has left Jesus and we are more certain than ever before that there are more pressing matters to attend to than Jesus and his cross.

Paul wanted the Corinthian believers to understand one thing clearly. 1 Corinthians 1:18 "For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." That is, our aspiration is not really to become like the first century church. Rather, our longing is to know Jesus Christ and be satisfied in him.

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Growth Resources

In January we are reading "Union with Christ: The Blessings of Being In Him" by Sinclair Ferguson. See also 12 for 26

Announcements

1/25 (Lord's Day): Sunday School continues. Essential Truths of the Christian Faith" ch. 70 "Perseverance of the Saints." Also 2/1, ch. 71 "Assurance of Salvation."

1/28 (Wednesday 7PM): Esther Zoom Study. Meeting ID: 884 9003 6844. Passcode: 5sUpUi

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).

This Week's Prayers

Please email your prayer request by Thursday to include it in the list for the upcoming week — info@gracefallbrook.church