Weekly Update

Join us This Sunday! You are welcome.

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School (see classes below)

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Red-Brick Sanctuary: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

Chapter 20

continuing our series through MattheW

Highland — so good to be with you Sunday! Our text was Matthew 20:1-16.

Here’s a brief recap:

Salvation Belongs to the Lord; Afforded to All

In the Name of Jesus, salvation will be afforded to all who repent of their sin.

  • the rich, the poor, sick, lame, those early in life, those late in life…

    • “with God, all things are possible.”

“I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first, and the first last” — (Matthew 16:14).

  • Our definition of goodness and justice is rooted in selfishness.

    • God’s definition of goodness and justice is rooted in generosity and grace.

This Sunday, we continue through the Gospel of Matthew. Our outlook for Service this Sunday is to complete chapter 20 — we will see what the Lord has in store for us. Last week’s sermon is available online.

Prayer Guide

1st Strand of Stewardship — Heart

Prayer Guide

"Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy” (Proverbs 12:20).

Reading Proverbs daily is as natural as breathing for me at this point in my life. I read the proverb that correlates with the numerical day of the week. This sentence stuck with me while I read in a recent proverb.

The visual that came to mind was seeing my heart as a storehouse. I envisioned my heart carefully preserving the peace of the Lord. I then began to recall all who I know who are distraught, hurting and deceived. I asked the Lord to help me know how to distribute peace to those I know that are ailing.

Considering the terms “devise” and “deceit” — they reveal the heart of a person who invents ways (devise) to cheat and mislead others (deceit). Their hearts are saturated in sin and celebrate wickedness. Scripture tell us to avoid such people. While we do not join in with those who devise evil plans, being around them is unavoidable at times. Even still, when the peace of Christ rules within our hearts, we do not harbor hatred toward anyone, including those are evil.

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7).

Highland, let’s ask the Lord to make our hearts storehouses of peace. By way of His wisdom, may we develop plans to impart peace to all. If one has trespassed against us, let us ask the Lord to help us reconcile with them. Let’s plan to distribute peace to them. In doing so, the joy and peace of the Lord fills and guards our hearts. May our hearts experience the fullness of His presence, where peace and joy abound, ridding our hearts of anxiety.

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Monday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’ update!

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. Doors will be open Monday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

Next Session — October 14th

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Weekly Update

Join Us This Sunday! You are welcome.

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School (see classes below)

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Red-Brick Sanctuary: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

Donny’s back in action

Donny is home! He is scootering around North Highland. Saw him at our cafe’ this morning! It felt good to fix him a cup of coffee.

Chapter 19 & 20

Verses 19:27 - 20:19 this Sunday

continuing our series through MattheW

We continue through Matthew together. Last Sunday, we took a stroll through the latter half of Matthew 19. We tackled what we referred to as the “The Value-System of the Kingdom of God” (Matthew 19:13-30).

Often, societal views shape our views of salvation. In these passages, Jesus offers us a glimpse as to how the Lord weighs hearts in light of eternal life. Matthews lays out for us how Jesus compares “Childlike hearts” to “Coveting hearts”, which we covered. The sermon is available through our website if you want to listen to it.

As we move toward Sunday, we will pick up at the tail-end chapter 19, entering chapter 20. Join us as we consider what Jesus points toward when says – “he last will be first, and the first last.” I look forward to seeing you Sunday.

Andrew’s Grass!

Prayer Guide

4th Strand of Stewardship — North Highland

Prayer Guide

Written by: Andrew Cowart

For the last four years, I have lived in a neighborhood very different from the middle-class suburban neighborhood where I grew up. Some people call it the bad part of town. We are in the news a lot. I moved here, compelled by the life of Christ, to live an incarnational life on mission. I love this neighborhood.

I do not call it the bad part of town. I believe God has made his face to shine upon this little corner of the Kingdom, and He will have His way here. During the week, I teach at an adult trade school in the neighborhood. I have the honor of teaching Christianity 101, among other classes, to adults who are looking for a second chance at life. Yesterday I taught on the Kingdom of God. We defined it like this:

The Kingdom of God is where chaos is brought into order under God’s loving hand.

I used an example that is common in our neighborhood: an abandoned house with an overgrown yard. Nearly every other house here has been abandoned and left to rot, swallowed whole by kudzu and other weeds. But later this year, our construction students will adopt one such house. They will clear the vines and dig a forgotten sidewalk up from under the weeds. They will replace shattered windows with whole ones. They will install hardwood floors, countertops, and cabinets, transforming a mattress-strewn drug den into a real living room. Finally, they will paint over the graffitied curses spray-painted on the outside walls, reclaiming the house from the Kingdom of Darkness. A few months later, a family in need will move in and call it home.

Chaos brought into order under God’s loving hand.

Since I moved to the neighborhood, really my whole adult life, I have fought with a “yard” that is mostly rocks, dirt, and broken beer bottles. Recently a generous donor paid for my yard to be re-sodded. The grass was laid yesterday. It is one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received. This morning I rolled up my jeans, went outside, and stood on freshly laid emerald zoysia with my coffee cup in hand. A neighborhood kid walking to school paused and stood there with me. “Is this real grass?” he asked, the Kingdom of God wet with dew under our feet.

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

Next Session — October 14th

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Weekly Update

Listening Sessions Update from Billy

Posted for Second Week

Friends!

In April, we started something new at Highland. We gathered the church to get feedback on our current state so we could plan for the future. We decided to host these "Listening Sessions" to document your feedback on the church's current state and identify opportunities for growth. We started each session with Scripture, shared ideas in small groups, and prayed for each other. That's a productive hour from 9-10 each week!

Many of you were part of this amazing group that not only encouraged me with your perspectives, but also inspired me to dream with you about the future opportunities for our church.The Lord has called you here to Highland, and I'm so grateful He did. Thank you for contributing to this effort!

I wanted to send a quick update to keep you in the loop on where we are in this process:

  1. The church leadership (Pastor Rob and the Team Leader Board) is meeting on September 9 to begin strategic planning. We will meet over several Wednesday nights to finalize the plan.

  2. We will use the Bible, our by-laws, and the results from the Listening Sessions to determine the strategic priorities.

  3. We will send the plan to members and welcome your feedback.

  4. The members will vote on the plan, and if approved, it will go into effect on January 1.

This is the first time we have done this, and it is very exciting. I ask you to pray for Highland as this plan unfolds. There were themes that emerged from the Listening Sessions that will require us all to roll up our sleeves a little more, and lean into the flourishing of our church body. It will take all of us for this to go well. Some ideas that came up won't make the cut. And that's okay! Our prayer is to focus on a few imperative things for the coming year, and most of all, to continue serving Christ unified with one another.

I'm grateful to each of you, and always available if you have any questions.

Billy

Sunday School, 9 a.m. — Really difficult to find a more suitable pic!

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School (see classes below)

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Red-Brick Sanctuary: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

Donny’s a little better

Donny is battling and showing signs of improvement! Though, he’s not out of the woods yet. Let’s continue to rally around him, Highland. To those who’ve spent time with him - thank you!

Chapter 19

Verses 19:13-30 this Sunday

continuing our series through MattheW

.Last Sunday, we set our sights on singleness. In our series through Matthew, we took a closer look at Matthew 19:10-12. In this text, Jesus alludes to a deep truth about those who are single and sold out, living for the Kingdom of God. Sermon is posted and available on our website.

Here’s a Brief Recap

“The disciples said to him, “If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” But he said to them, “Not everyone can receive this saying, but only those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who is able to receive this receive it” (Matthew 19:10-12).

  • Keller’s statement sheds light on understanding our deep longing for love and unity, whether married or single.

  • “The more we realize that the deep longing we feel as human beings can only be satisfied in the eternal kingdom, the more we realize, whether married or single, that the pressure is off.”

  • Married people – the pressure is off for you to be your spouse’s perfect fulfillment.

  • Single people – the pressure is off for you to find that special someone. – Tim Keller

  • Being single and serving the Household of God is not a second-rate life.

  • Being unified with Christ carries value in the eyes of the Lord, whether married or not.

  • A covenant is the giving of ourselves to another.

  • A single-person gives of themself for Christ.

  • Being single in Christ or being married in Christ serve as distinct Kingdom-callings.

  • Both convey unique aspects of the beauty of the heart of Christ.

    • Therefore, whichever position we currently find ourselves within, let us each radiate the glory of Christ.

Highland — thank you for being so hospitable and serving!

Prayer Guide

3rd Strand of Stewardship — Highland

Fostering Christ-exalting Life Together

Prayer Guide

Keller’s Nine Practices of Christian Community

AFFIRM ONE ANOTHER

  • Affirm one another’s strengths, abilities, and gifts.
 Recognize and encourage what God has given to others.

  • Affirm one another’s equal importance in Christ.
Treat every believer as having equal dignity and significance in the body of Christ.

  • Affirm one another through visible affection.
Express genuine love, kindness, attentiveness, and affection toward one another.

SHARE WITH ONE ANOTHER

  • Share one another’s space, goods, and time.
Open our homes, possessions, schedules, and lives to one another.

  • Share one another’s needs and problems.
Allow others to know our struggles and burdens, and enter into theirs.

  • Share one another’s beliefs, thinking, and spirituality.
Learn together, discuss the faith together, pray together, and help one another grow spiritually.

SERVE ONE ANOTHER

  • Serve one another through accountability.
Love one another enough to ask difficult questions, speak truth, and help each other pursue holiness.

  • Serve one another through forgiveness and reconciliation.
Practice the gospel by forgiving offenses and actively restoring broken relationships.

  • Serve one another’s interests rather than our own.
Put the needs and interests of others ahead of ourselves rather than using community primarily for our own benefit.

— Tim Keller, Gospel in Life

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

Next Session — October 14th

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Donny's in the Hospital

Donny Faulkner

Highland — Donny Faulkner is in the hospital. He is in the ICU. He had a seizure yesterday at home. He was taken to the hospital by ambulance and is currently under sedation.

Let’s rally together in prayer around Donny. To those who’ve visited him — thank you! Highland, we love others so well! Thank you! We will do our best to keep you updated.

Weekly Update

Donny — thanks for helping to keep Highland lookin’ good!

Listening Sessions Update from Billy

Friends!

In April, we started something new at Highland. We gathered the church to get feedback on our current state so we could plan for the future. We decided to host these "Listening Sessions" to document your feedback on the church's current state and identify opportunities for growth. We started each session with Scripture, shared ideas in small groups, and prayed for each other. That's a productive hour from 9-10 each week!

Many of you were part of this amazing group that not only encouraged me with your perspectives, but also inspired me to dream with you about the future opportunities for our church.The Lord has called you here to Highland, and I'm so grateful He did. Thank you for contributing to this effort!

I wanted to send a quick update to keep you in the loop on where we are in this process:

  1. The church leadership (Pastor Rob and the Team Leader Board) is meeting on September 9 to begin strategic planning. We will meet over several Wednesday nights to finalize the plan.

  2. We will use the Bible, our by-laws, and the results from the Listening Sessions to determine the strategic priorities.

  3. We will send the plan to members and welcome your feedback.

  4. The members will vote on the plan, and if approved, it will go into effect on January 1.

This is the first time we have done this, and it is very exciting. I ask you to pray for Highland as this plan unfolds. There were themes that emerged from the Listening Sessions that will require us all to roll up our sleeves a little more, and lean into the flourishing of our church body. It will take all of us for this to go well. Some ideas that came up won't make the cut. And that's okay! Our prayer is to focus on a few imperative things for the coming year, and most of all, to continue serving Christ unified with one another.

I'm grateful to each of you, and always available if you have any questions.

Billy

Sunday School, 9 a.m.

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School (see classes below)

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Red-Brick Sanctuary: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

chapter 19

continuing our series through Matthew

I have been riding on top of a wave of joy from Sunday’s Service all week. How I enjoy gathering in the Name of Christ! Lifting up the Name of Jesus with you higher than our circumstances is such a privilege. May we carry the name of Christ with honor.

Let’s continue to lift up our eyes, setting our eyes upon the Lord – for He is our help, Highland. You’re not alone. The Lord is with you. You are loved. Know that I love you and I remain available to you.

As promised, here’s the recap on forgiveness (Matthew 18):

The good news of Jesus:

  • Our hearts are sick with sin.

  • Jesus diagnoses our heart-sickness; He is the remedy.

  • When we encounter the majesty of Christ Jesus, we find no other response than to submit to His Lordship.

  • The Holy Spirit indwells and transforms our hearts, granting us a new nature.

  • In agreement with God, we learn to hate what He calls sinful.

  • Instead, we passionately pursue what He deems right.

  • The Lord deems forgiveness as right.

Understanding Our Sin Nature

  • Apart from Christ, we are performance-driven.

  • We strive for personal worth and acceptance.

  • Being performance-driven produces self-righteousness.

  • What I am and my degree-of-importance in the eyes of others makes up my self-worth.

How Our Nature is Renewed, Becoming Forgiving

  • To repent is confessing our sinfulness before the Lord.

  • In submitting to Jesus as Lord, our sins are forgiven.

  • His nature is forgiving; our nature becomes forgiving.

  • In Christ, we foster and even promote forgiveness.

Restoration

  • Restoration is to be offended, forgive the offense and to return to the relationship as it was before

  • Celebrating forgiveness, every relationship has its own details.

  • Therefore, forgiveness does not always result in restoration.

Reconciliation

  • What forgiveness does always entail is reconciliation.

  • To reconcile is to account for and settle differences.

  • After settling the differences, we do not continue to count the offenders’ trespasses against them – we bless them instead.

Recap of Sunday’s Sermon on Marriage (Matthew 19:1-12)

  • Marriage is a covenant.

  • A covenant is the giving of ourselves to another.

  • Unlike a contract that’s based on conditional terms, in a covenant, we do not demand our terms to be satisfied. We give more of ourselves.

  • Aligning with Jesus, we must understand marriage is a covenant.

  • Its function of expressing God’s covenant-love is central to its meaning.

  • We cannot veer into a contractual understanding of marriage. We must promote oneness by giving of ourselves.

  • As one with Christ, so one in marriage.

    • See our Prayer Guide for more insight as to how to pray for marriages (it’s below).

    • Sermon audio is available.

Prayer Guide

2nd Strand of Stewardship — Home

Prayer Guide

A covenant is the giving of ourselves to another. Unlike a contract that’s based on conditional terms, in a covenant, we do not demand terms. In Matthew 19:3-7, the root issue is that the Pharisees are stringently defining terms for permitting divorce, instead of nourishing the covenant-meanings of marriage. It appears that marriage is more like a contract in the Pharisees’ view, not a covenant.

Jesus responds to their questions about divorce by giving answers that highlight the foundational truths that define the marital covenant. Instead of discussing allowable ways out of a marriage, Jesus defines why to stay in! As we pray this week, let’s align our hearts with Jesus. Here are practical ways to strengthen our marriages — ‘to stick and stay’:

  • Humility: The ability to be attuned and aware of what is happening in myself and the other; to disrupt the triggering of trauma, past and present

  • Honesty: The resolve to own what is mine and to engage without blaming the other for what I feel. To address the log in my own eye first.

  • Kindness: A fierce commitment to enter the heartache and fear of the other with compassion and care.

  • Curiosity: The intentional entering into the story and experience of the other, which will develop a desire to know and understand what the other feels, desires and fears.

  • Defiance: A refusal to let hurt, anger and past failures to determine the future of what we are able to create together. A stance against death in all its forms.

  • Intention to Bless: Holding the other in and with wonder and awe, delight and gratitude; a stance of “heaven, yes” to the beauty we can create together.

Excerpt from: “The Deep-Rooted Marriage” — By: Dan Allender; Steve Call

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Summer hours: Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

Next Session — October 14th

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Weekly Update

Sunday School, 9 a.m.

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School (see classes below)

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Red-Brick Sanctuary: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

chapter 19

continuing our series through Matthew

Highland — How thankful I am for you! Having you in my life is among the richest of blessings! Oh, I rejoice over you. Furthermore, thank you for all that you do to serve one another. From checking on one another, to putting away chairs each Sunday afternoon. I appreciate everyone who’s leading and coming to Sunday School! It’s a gift to be able to do life with you.

Sunday’s sermon was not able to be recorded. So sorry for any inconvenience this causes you. Even still, I can offer a summary. The passage was Matthew 18:21-35, “The Unmerciful Servant.” Our central point: forgiveness.

Forgiveness is Right in the Eyes of The Lord

The Lord deems forgiveness to be right. Now, Peter is approaching Jesus about forgiveness.

Peter’s asking Jesus about the number of times we are obligated to forgive someone who offends us habitually.

Jesus tells Peter to stop counting. Rather, in sharing in heart agreement with the Lord, forgiveness is part of our nature, it’s as natural as breathing.

“If you’re still counting how many times you’re forgiving someone, you’re not really forgiving them at all – you’re simply postponing revenge.” – N.T. Wright

Considering how Jesus directs us to forgive, let’s look at our Prayer Guide. You’ll find 4 questions that allow us to probe our hearts. Let’s ask the Lord to help us forgive. See our Prayer Guide below.

Jim & Jo Ellen

Prayer Guide

1st Strand of Stewardship — Heart

Prayer Guide

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive” (Colossians 3:12-13).

God is forgiving. The heart of one who loves Jesus is inclined to forgive. We do not forgive because our offender deserves forgiveness. Rather, our motivation to forgive flows out of receiving forgiveness for our sin.

As we pray this week, let us remember the error of our ways, our shortcomings and our sin. May our hearts rejoice over the forgiveness of sin we’ve found in Christ. In rejoicing over His mercy, let’s allow our hearts to be inclined to be merciful, forgiving our offenders.

As we pray this week:

  • Who might you consider offering amends?

  • Are there people you need to reconcile with?

  • Is there a relationship in which you need to promote forgiveness?

  • What loved ones in your life might need to be encouraged by you to forgive?

When we surrender our resentment and choose to forgive, we are honoring Jesus, our deliverer! Our hearts find peace in His presence because we are walking in the Spirit, promoting peace. Our hearts thereby come into submission to God’s Word, which says “For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6). Let us pursue the Lord, who is our peace, and live!

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Summer hours: Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

Next Session — October 14th

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Weekly Update

Sunday School, 9 a.m.

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School (see classes below)

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Classroom 6: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

Prayer Guide

4th Strand of Stewardship — North Highland

Prayer Guide

“The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor” (Proverbs 12:24).

I was cutting my front yard last weekend. When I was cleaning up, a group of neighborhood kids were walking by. They came up to me. Two of them were intrigued by the fact that I was working! They asked if they could help me. Being that I was finishing up, I told them to return next Saturday. I explained to them they could help me with yard-work in my backyard. These two children asked me a few detailed questions. I answered them, then they left.

Now, I have had many of these types of conversations with others over the years. Typically, those who inquire about working do not return. So, I did not expect these two children to show up yesterday. As a matter of fact, I had even forgotten we even had the discussion. So, you can imagine I was quite surprised when I saw those two children walking up my walkway yesterday at the time we had arranged. They were ready to work! Even wearing work gloves!

Due to my surprise, I talked to Carrie. We made arrangements for projects and agreed on prices, then they got to work! They did such a great job!

As we pray for North Highland this week, let’s celebrate the value of work being cherished, as in the eyes of these children! As Truth Spring Trade School is kicking off another year, let’s pray for Megan, Jared & Andrew, who make up Trade School’s core leadership. Let’s pray, asking the Lord to grant them wisdom and stamina. As with these children, may diligence in work characterize the hearts and hands of our neighbors enrolled in Truth Spring Trade School.

chapter 18

continuing our series through Matthew

Highland,

Unfortunately, we were unable to record last Sunday’s sermon. I am sorry for any inconvenience that this causes you. However, I do have an overview to offer of our sermon on Matthew 18:7-20:

Humility & Compassion Are Main Ingredients

Recap of Matthew 18:1-6

David Klaus preached last Sunday. He led us into Matthew 18. He eloquently drew out the fact that this passage centers upon how we, the Church, do life together. It’s a glimpse as to what Jesus expects our community to entail. David really helped us adopt a proper outlook by allowing us to see how humility and compassion must be main ingredients within our Christ-centered Community.

Working in the Royal Law

Matthew 18:7-9

As we consider personal Christ-centered living and corporate Christ-centered community, we would be wise to insert here what’s referred to as the Royal Law. That being – to love the Lord God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

In his gospel, Luke points out a discussion between Jesus and a religious leader. In this discussion, we see the Royal Law brought to light. Jesus actually tells this leader that to love the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself is to live.

To Love The Lord is to Hate Sin

Matthew 18:7-9 Continued

Loving the Lord is to be in relationship with Him. To behold Him; not just know about Him. To want to honor Him, not willfully offend Him in our sinfulness. Those who repent of sin, declaring Jesus to be Lord, enter into relationship with the Lord. They know the Lord hates sin because sin destroys. Sin separates to the point of isolation. Sin leads to death. Those who submit to Jesus as Lord undergo a heart change by way of the Holy Spirit.

As our hearts are renewed, we begin to share in heart agreement with the Lord. What He sees as wrong and sinful, we agree with, hating sin, as He does. What He deems right, we agree with, seeking after it with every breath! As we submit to Jesus as Lord, beholding Him, the eyes of our hearts have been enlightened. We find life in being near Him, our good shepherd. Jesus as Lord, choosing to persist in willful sin, results in us going to hell.

Turning Toward The One Who Strays In Mercy

Matthew 18:10-14

In belonging to this community of repentant sinners, we come to recognize that being near our Good Shepherd is our only source of rest. When one strays, our hearts turn toward that one in mercy. We long for their return, knowing that they are restless, unable to find mercy apart from the Good Shepherd.

We are not to be huddled together as His flock celebrating our own self-righteousness. We find our good, our righteousness, in being nearer to Jesus. We don’t turn to back biting or gossip as our way to handle those who stray. Rather, we recall being lost, the loneliness and anguish we felt in being deceived in our sin. We rejoice over the mercy we’ve received! It remains our eager expectation for the one who strays to also encounter the Lord’s mercy and forgiveness, eager for them to return.

When they do return, we rejoice – along with the Shepherd. We don’t look at them sideways, or make facial expressions that express our doubt. Rather, we celebrate the Shepherd’s fierce love and pursuit after the one who strays, praying the lost sheep who was found will also find rest and goodness in being near Jesus. As part of the ninety nine, we must crucify that secret criticism in our hearts toward the one who strays. Rather, we must intercede for them, rallying around them in support.

Handling Offense in the Huddle

Matthew 18:15-20

While in the Christian huddle, this truth also applies to one who sins against us. How we handle this offense is, even still, supportive of the offender in nature. Jesus lays out the policy here.

We are to go to our offender personally. We do not want to call any further attention to the offense or bring shame on the offender. In doing so, even in the middle of problems, we’re promoting peace.

In promoting peace, we reveal that we share in nature (in heart agreement) with our Heavenly Father. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says peacemakers shall be called “Sons of God.” Therefore, when we are offended, let’s especially be peacemakers, promoting the glory of God and seeking to promote even the good of our offender.

If the effort to restore the relationship is unsuccessful, then Jesus instructs us as to what to do. First, we are to take a small group of trustworthy witnesses to address the offender, seeking to iron out all of the wrinkles.

If the offender continues to foster discord, a lack of agreement, then the church is to be made aware that there’s apparently a wolf in sheep’s clothing in our midst.

As one submissive to the authority of Jesus there’s a delegated sense of authority Jesus is referring to here, entrusting those who lead to address, receive or refuse those who are being divisive.

While peacemaking is to characterize the hearts of believers, especially in the face of offense, we must also be protectors of those in our huddle as well.

When a person persists in being quarrelsome and divisive, they are promoting and celebrating these kinds of fruits – they are fostering division. They are not pursuing unity in Christ, they are exalting themselves, either in pride or self-righteousness – or both! This sin-soiled heart will spread these fruits throughout a Christian Community like a poison. Thereby, the person must be excused from the huddle.

Yet – Scripture does not permit those with delegated authority to receive or rebuke with an aire of self righteousness or personal-avenging, which means to cause someone pain for being difficult, because we deem ourselves to be right and them wrong. That’s self-justification – not the right play here.

Rather, we are to preserve and to protect all from the further spreading of the offense - even the offender as much one can. Clearly, this does not mean we conceal the truth, or sweep offenses under the rug. Though, Scripture does tell us that as much as possible, peace is our aim.

In Romans 12, Paul further applies these truths directing us to even care for our enemies. Paul directs us this way so that we do not give over the control of our emotions to our enemies. Rather, when we continue to treat them with kindness, we know and display a strength that can only come from the Lord. Next Sunday, we will be working through Mathew 18:20-35. This text is centered upon forgiveness.

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Summer hours: Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. We are going to transition to summer hours. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

August 12th — this Wednesday

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Weekly Update

Service at 10a.m. this Sunday.

Sunday School Semester starts sunday

August 9th — October 4th

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9am-10am: Sunday School

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Classroom 6: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

Prayer Guide

3rd Strand of Stewardship — Highland

Prayer Guide

“Like a City on a Hill” – wherever we are, whatever circumstances we find ourselves within, may we radiate the light of Christ Jesus! It’s not shiny ministries or spot lights and sound bytes that will change hearts. It’s our desire, both personally and collectively, to be distinct that puts Christ on display, like a city on a hill! It’s our desire to ‘be in the light as He is in the light.’ Here’s what it means to walk in the light, bearing citizenship as one who resides in a city on a hill:

We flee from darkness: Read and pray through Colossians 3:5-10 this week.

We walk in the light: Read and pray also through Colossians 3:12-17.

As Alex Sturgeon said to me once, “Highland has been a solid, bright campfire but is becoming a blazing bonfire!” As we sit upon a hill in North Highland, may the flames of the Holy Spirit burn brightly within us! Let us, collectively, walk in the light of Christ as citizens of that 'city on a hill.’

This is my most longing desire for us, Highland. Let’s continue to go deeper, abounding in love for the Lord and for each other. This love was certainly shown to Andrew in our vote! The members present at our recent Member Meeting voted. 100% voted in favor of bringing Andrew Cowart on staff in a permanent position as Ministry Coordinator. How affirming! How hopeful, both for Andrew and for Highland! Andrew, welcome! May the Lord make the work of your hands fruitful as you serve His Name here, at Highland.

chapter 18

The Beauty of the Heart of Christ

continuing our series through Matthew

David really did a great job reigniting our series through Matthew! He took on the first portion of the 18th chapter - verses one through six. His sermon is posted. Give it a listen; it’s good heart medicine! We continue through our series through Matthew this Sunday. I will be preaching throughout the next portion of the chapter.

Sunday School starts this Sunday, 9a.m. Please see our Class Schedule. Make every effort to join as we study God’s Word together. This semester will run through October 4th. To those serving, thank you for your willingness to help!

Classes are underway at TSA!

School’s back In Session!

To my fellow educators – ‘tis the season to return! Know that I am praying for us all. May the Lord give us endurance as we begin the marathon that is a school year! Truth Spring Academy students returned this Wednesday. This marks the start of my 29th year in education! Kicked off my 29th year with such an enjoyable student body!

We even have several kiddos from our church in Truth Spring Academy’s student body. What a privilege to serve you and your family in this way! I hope we all, educators and parents, have a fruitful school year! Finally, Highland — thank you for opening wide your doors to these students! They love it here. So hospitable of you.

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Summer hours: Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. We are going to transition to summer hours. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

August 12th is our Next Time to Gather.

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Weekly Update

Sunday School Semester dates — August 9th — October 4th

Class time is Sunday, 9am.

Sunday School Semester dates — August 9th — October 4th

We need teachers for our Pre-K Class and an assistant for our 3rd-5th Grade class.

Talk to Rob, Andrew or Megan to help.

Sunday School Classes & Their Location

To those leading and serving, thank you!

Classes run August 9th-October 4th and will begin at 9a.m.

Classroom 1: 0-2 year olds: Church Nursery

Classroom 2: 3 & 4 year olds

Classroom 3: Kindergarten-Second Grade Class

Classroom 4: Third-Fifth Grade Class

Classroom 5: Tweens & Teen Boys

Classroom 6: “Gospel in Life” — Co-ed Class

Classroom 7: Theology Class, led by Mike Hare

Classroom 8: Tweens & Teen Girls

Dining Facility: Life Class Devotion (Ongoing throughout the year)

Sunday’s Schedule

8am: Doors open

8am–9am: Coffee & Conversation in our Dining Facility

9:15am: Coffee & Convo Devotion in our Dining Facility

10am: Sunday Morning Service in our Sanctuary (which is our gym).

Service at 10a.m. this Sunday.

Prayer Guide

2nd Strand of Stewardship — Home

Prayer Guide

David Klaus preaches Sunday.

Returning to our series through Matthew

Last Sunday, Robert charged us to all seek the Lord! Seek His face in faithfulness. He then offered Biblical accounts that show us all what seeking the face of the Lord looks like! Great job, Robert!

This Sunday, David Klaus will take the pulpit. He will restart our journey through the Gospel of Matthew. David will take Matthew 18:1-6. Here’s the text:

“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.

Take the time to prepare your hearts by reading through the passage. Thank you, David, for taking the time to speak into the life of Highland.

Back-to-school bash

Jonah Thomason, a member of our church, works for Rivertown Toyota. Their dealership is organizing a Back-to-school bash! Please see the details and plan to attend or help spread the word!

Highland Cafe’ is open next week. Summer hours: Tuesday—Thursday, 8:30a.m.-11:30a.m.

Highland Cafe’

The Highland Cafe’ is open. If you want to serve, please contact us. We are going to transition to summer hours. Doors will be open Tuesday through Thursday, 8:30a.m.—11:30a.m throughout the summer.

August 12th is our Next Time to Gather.

Men’s Bible Study

Men, let’s get together. Let’s spend some time studying God’s Word and doing life together. We will have a meal, spend time together, then study God’s Word together. We will begin at 6pm. Register below. Please note — no childcare will be provided. If you are reading this in our weekly email, see the original post to access the form to register.

I love you, Highland.

See you Sunday,

Rob

Location & Mailing address

3408 5th Avenue, Columbus, Georgia 31904

phone Number — (706)249-9424