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Counting Our Blessings
Worship Service: Sermon only - November 19, 2017
What is the Lord asking us to do when He invites us to "count our blessings?" | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (27m 25s)
From Seedtime To Harvest - What Is Stunting My Spiritual Growth?
Worship Service: Sermon only - October 22, 2017
There are many places in the Scriptures where the Lord compares the process of spiritual growth to the growing of a seed. This week's inspiration looks at three things that may be preventing this seed from growing. Why does my faith, my love for the Lord and my spiritual life in general seem to be wilting away? | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (31m 24s)
Behold I Am Coming Quickly: Patience & Persistence
Worship Service: Sermon only - October 15, 2017
When the Lord says He will come or do something "quickly" He means that He will come or do something certainly. How does knowing this help us develop two important spiritual disciplines: Patience & Persistence. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (33m 16s)
A Residue In The Land
Worship Service: Sermon only - October 08, 2017
What exactly are "remains?" "Remains" are all the states of good and truth that the Lord implants within us during the course of our entire life. We have the choice to either cover these remains over, or allow the Lord to draw them forth. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (29m 25s)
A Heaven From The Human Race
Worship Service: Sermon only - September 24, 2017
The Divine Providence has as its end a heaven from the human race. This sermon looks at the fact that heaven is conjunction with the Lord. Why is heaven defined in this way? How do we achieve this conjunction with the Lord? | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (36m 08s)
From Sister To Wife
Worship Service: Sermon only - September 17, 2017
Why did Abram ask Sarai to pretend to be his sister when sojourning in Egypt? In this sermon we look at the spiritual representation of Sarai being a "sister" verses being a "wife." | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (30m 17s)
Building Your House On The Rock
Worship Service: Sermon only - September 10, 2017
What does it mean to build your house upon the rock versus the sand. This sermon helps us understand this by focusing on the spiritual meaning of "sand." | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (30m 46s)
Worshiping The Lord
Worship Service: Sermon only - July 30, 2017
Part 4 of a 6 part series on spiritual disciplines. This week we look at the spiritual discipline of worship. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (30m 28s)
Self Examination: Spiritual Disciplines Part 2
Worship Service: Sermon only - July 09, 2017
This is part two of our six part series on spiritual disciplines. Here we explore the spiritual discipline of self-examination. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (30m 08s)
Meditating On The Lord's Word: Spiritual Disciplines Part 1
Worship Service: Sermon only - July 02, 2017
This summer we are having a six part series on spiritual disciplines. Part 1 looks at the spiritual discipline of meditating on the Lord's Word. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (09m 16s)
I Am The Alpha And The Omega
Worship Service: Sermon only - June 11, 2017
The book of Revelation is about a New Church the Lord is establishing in this world. This New Church is founded on the eternal truth that the Lord Jesus Christ is the One God of heaven and earth. We explore the first vision John had on the Island of Patmos which introduces this eternal truth, setting the stage for the rest of this wonderful book. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (29m 53s)
Laying Down Your Soul For Your Friends
Worship Service: Sermon only - May 28, 2017
"Greater love has no one than this, than one lay down his soul for his friends." (John 15:13) In this sermon I focus on two words that help us gain a new appreciation for this familiar adage: "soul" and "friends." What would you be willing to lay down your soul for? | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (15m 59s)
Opening The Door to Heaven
Worship Service: Family (may include music) - April 30, 2017
This morning we are having a family service, which means that the children are invited to stay for the entire service. The talk will be directed mainly to the children, but will include a message that we can all benefit from. In the book of Revelation the Lord gives messages to seven churches. Today we will read the message He gives to the church in Philadelphia. In this message the Lord speaks of an open door that no one is able to shut. According to the Heavenly Doctrines, we always have the choice to either open a door that leads to hell, or a door that leads to heaven. How doe we open the door that leads to heaven? How do we keep the door that leads to hell shut? In the message to the church in Philadelphia the Lord explains why He is able to place before them an open door to heaven: 1. Because you have little power: You know you can do nothing from yourself. 2. Because you have kept My Word: You live according to the Lord's commandments. 3. Because you have not denied My Name: You are in the worship of the Lord. Everyday you have the choice to either open a doorway that leads to hell, or a doorway that leads to heaven. Which will you choose? Recitation: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him and will sup with him, and he with Me." (Revelation 3:20) Readings: The Book of Revelation: 3:7-11 Heaven and Hell: #430 | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (22m 45s)
Acknowledging The Lord
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - April 09, 2017
The Lord always wants people to approach and acknowledge Him. At times we see joyful images in the Scriptures of people doing this. On Palm Sunday a great multitude gathered around the Lord and cried out saying, "Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of Jehovah!" (Matthew 21:9) At other times we see images in Scriptures of the Lord mourning because the people of His church are not acknowledging Him. He wept over Jerusalem ( Luke 19:41), and on the cross He said, "I thirst!" (John 19:28) This Palm Sunday we are going to talk about three ways the Lord wants us to acknowledge Him: 1. We acknowlege the Lord by acknowledging that He is the One God of heaven and earth. 2. We acknowledge the Lord by acknowledging that everything good and true comes form him alone. 3. We acknowledge the Lord by living a life according to His commandments. This Palm Sunday reflect on what it means to acknowledge the Lord. Are you genuinely doing this? Are you allowing the Lord to lead you to a state of eternal happiness and peace? Remember that the only reason the Lord wants us to acknowledge Him is because He loves us and wants to save us! ---This week's Recitation---: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26) | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (33m 00s)
7 Adages From The Cross
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - April 02, 2017
Throughout the year we offer services of worship that are designed to give people the opportunity to engage more fully with the week's message. People can ask questions, hear other people's thoughts and share their own ideas. These worship services are called Seekers Sundays. The format is as follows: 1. We start as we always do with a song, the opening of the Word and a talk for the children. 2. Next the children go downstairs for Sunday School and the adults enjoy a set of readings and a brief introduction to the week's lesson/topic. 3. Following this the formal service of worship is brought to a close. People are invited to gather downstairs to continue with a conversation: What questions do you have? What are your insights? How does this apply to our own lives in more practical ways? ---7 Adages From The Cross--- The Lord did not say much when He was being crucified. However, what He did say provides us with many insights into the meaning and use of His crucifixion and resurrection. This Sunday we will explore together the seven things that the Lord said on the cross. What do these words teach us about our own relationship with the Lord and what His crucifixion and resurrection accomplished for us? 1. "My God, My God, why have You fotrsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46) 2. "I thirst!" (John 19:28) 3. "Women, behold your son!....Behold your mother!" (John 19:26, 27) 4. "Father forgive them for they do not know what they do." (Luke 23:34) 5. "Father, into Thy hands I commit My spirit." (Luke 23:46) 6. "It is finished!" (John 19:30) 7. "Assuredly I say to you today you will be with Me in Paradise." (Luke 23:43) | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (12m 50s)
Abram & Lot (Part 2) -Lot is Separated
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - March 19, 2017
Today is part two of a two part series on Abram and Lot. In Genesis chapter twelve, Jehovah tells Abram to get out of his country and to leave his father's house. As Abram begins his journey to a new land Lot (his nephew) comes with him. Last week we learned that Lot represents the more sensual/external part of us - The part of us that learns various facts and experiences various affections based on the input we receive through our physical senses. Lot lived with Abram and began this journey with him, showing us that this sensual/external part of us is useful and important! The Lord wants us to use our physical senses to gather in much information and good experiences. These external ideas and affections we receive early in life act as vessels for the more spiritual truths and affections the Lord is leading us towards. In today's story both Abram and Lot have enlarged their possessions. The land can no longer support them both, and strife is arising between their herdsmen. Abram asks Lot to separate from him. This separation between Abram and Lot wonderfully represents a time in our own regeneration when we must separate ourselves from two kinds of external things: 1. Empty memory knowledges we learned in childhood. 2. Pleasures from the selfish and worldly loves we favor. While it is important to separate ourselves form certain unhelpful things in our sensual/external self, we will also see that our sensual/external self (Lot) can grow into something beautiful! This happens only if we allow our sensual/external self to serve and come into harmony with our more spiritual/internal self; ridding ourselves of this things that prevent this from happening. This week reflect on things in your more external self that the Lord may be asking you to separate from. Separating from Lot can be difficult, but it allows us to experience the true blessings the Lord created us for! | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (37m 18s)
3 Tips for Fighting Against The Influences of Hell
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - March 05, 2017
Throughout the year we offer services of worship that are designed to give people the opportunity to engage more fully with the week's message. People can ask questions, hear other people's thoughts and share their own ideas. These worship services are called Seekers Sundays. The format is as follows: 1. We start as we always do with a song, the opening of the Word and talk for the children. 2. Next the children go downstairs for Sunday School and the adults enjoy a set of readings and brief introduction to the week's lesson/topic. 3. Following this the formal service of worship is brought to a close. People are invited to gather downstairs to continue with a conversation: What questions do you have? What are you insights? How does this apply to our own lives in more practical ways? 3 Tips For Fighting Against The Influences of Hell The hells are always working to destroy us spiritually. They attack us in many subtle and conniving ways. This morning we will discuss three keys to successfully fighting against their influences. 1. Be aware of their existence and tricks. 2. Acknowledge your need for the Lord's help. 3. Fight with the truth from the Lord's Word. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (18m 26s)
Betrothal - Being Made Ready For Marriage
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - February 26, 2017
During the month of February, we are having a series of worship services on the topic of marriage. We began this series by talking about the perfect marriage between Divine Love and Wisdom that exists within the Lord Himself. An image of this marriage can be seen in everything the Lord creates, including in each one of us as individuals. Next we talked about how an image of this perfect union between the Lord's Divine Love and Wisdom is seen on a more general level between a husband and wife. In a marriage, the husband in an image of truth, and the wife is an image of good: "Thus the two together form a single image, which imitates the conjugial model of good and truth" (Conjugial Love 100) Today we will look at the state of betrothal (engagement). The Heavenly Doctrines have a lot to say about a couple's state leading up to marriage. We will focus on three teachings. 1. Consent is the essential of marriage. When a person is looking for someone to marry, what does the Lord suggest they keep in mind for their search to be successful? 2. Consent should be followed by the giving of gifts and a formal betrothal. Why are these external confirmations of consent so important? Note that a "formal betrothal" is different from the wedding ceremony. 3. By betrothal a couple is make ready for conjugial love. How is a couple made ready for marriage by betrothal? Why are sexual relations unlawful during this time? This week reflect on the beautiful (and very important) state that leads up to marriage. Even if you are already married, reflecting on betrothal can remind you what makes a marriage strong and successful. Betrothal is all about recognizing and fostering the internal or spiritual union between a bride and bridegroom. Readings: Genesis 24:1-28, Conjugial Love 100, & Conjugial Love 305 | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (29m 25s)
They Shall Be One Flesh
Worship Service: Sermon only - February 19, 2017
During the month of February, we are having a series of worship services on the topic of marriage. We began this series by talking about the perfect marriage between Divine Love and Divine Wisdom that exist within the Lord Himself. Because these two things are perfectly united within the Lord, we can see an image of their marriage in everything He creates. Last week we looked at how this heavenly marriage between the Lord's Divine Love and Wisdom exist within each of us as individuals. Allowing this marriage to take place in your won heart and mind is what regeneration is all about. When you achieve this internal marriage you are in heaven! You have been recreated in the image and likeness of God. (see Genesis 1:27) This morning we will look at how this perfect union between the Lord's Divine Love and Wisdom is seen on a more general level between a husband and wife. In a marriage, the husband is an image truth, while the wife is an image of love: "Thus the two together form a single image, which imitate the conjugial model of good and truth." (Conjugial Love 100) We will focus on three important ideas: 1. In order for a husband and wife to achieve a successful marriage, they must respect each other's unique gifts. 2. Love and wisdom come together in use. This means that a husband and wife will become more closely united as they focus together on serving the Lord and the neighbor. 3. If we want to experience the eternal happiness that angels enjoy, we must CHOOSE to embody these roles. This week reflect on the profound teaching that the relationship between a husband and wife imitates the relationship between wisdom/truth and love/good. Knowing this , what can you do to be (or prepare to be) a better husband or wife? Today's readings: Genesis 2:15-25 & Conjugial Love 37, 100, 115, & 137. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (22m 25s)
The Heavenly Marriage
Worship Service: Sermon only - February 05, 2017
During the month of February, we will be having a series of worship services on the topic of marriage. We begin this morning with a very general look at where marriage comes from. In a nut shell, the marriage between a husband and a wife comes from the perfect marriage (or union) that exists between the Lord's Divine Love and Wisdom. Because these two things are perfectly united within the Lord, we can see an image of their marriage throughout His creation. This morning we will look at how this heavenly marriage between the Lord's Divine Love and Wisdom exists within each of us as individuals. There are two things we will focus on: 1. What happens when we have some truth within us, but not enough goodness? 2. What happens when we have some goodness within us, but not enough truth? This week reflect on the perfect marriage between goodness and truth that the Lord is working to form within you. Why is this important? Because if something is going badly in your life, chances are this marriage is out of balance! Next week we will look at how this heavenly marriage exists on a more general level between a husband and wife. | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (22m 00s)
Hearing The Lord Speak Through His Word
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - January 29, 2017
| By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (20m 15s)
The Heavenly Marriage
Worship Service: Sermon only - February 14, 2016
This morning we will be talking about a concept that is so simple, and yet so profound: The Heavenly Marriage. God is Love and Wisdom Itself. Within God these two realities are perfectly united. They are one! This perfect union between love and wisdom that within God Himself is referred to as "The Heavenly Marriage". Today we will explore various aspect of this Heavenly Marriage, including the following: - This Heavenly Marriage between love and wisdom can be found in all things created by God... - As individuals, we should all be working to establish this Heavenly Marriage within our own hearts and minds... This week reflect on the simple and yet profoundly beautiful reality of the Heavenly Marriage between love and wisdom... | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (22m 42s)
Being Content With Our Daily Bread
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - January 31, 2016
This morning we have a guest preacher: The Reverend Grant Odhner. Grant was once the Pastor of this congregation. He is currently teaching at the Theological School in Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania. Grant will be preaching on the subject of being content with our daily bread. He will be reading the story of Jehovah proving the Children of Israel with manna from heaven. | By Rev. Grant H. Odhner | West Concord, MA
See Event (38m 48s)
The Philistines Return the Ark
Worship Service: Sermon only - January 24, 2016
Last week we explored the story of the Philistines capturing the ark of the Covenant and the terrible things that happened to them because of it. The Philistines represent a faith that is devoid of love and charity. The terrible things that happened to them represent the spiritual damage that we do to ourselves when we separate faith from charity. This morning we will continue this story and read about how the Philistines eventually chose to return the Ark of the Covenant to its rightful owner - the Children of Israel. The story of how they did this is filled with wonderful representations of how the Lord leads us away from the destructive life of faith alone, and towards a life where faith and charity are conjoined. Three images stand out: 1. The Philistines built a new cart to carry the Ark back to Israel... 2. They made five golden tumors and five golden mice... 3. They yoked two milk cows to the cart... This week reflect on the rich image of how the Philistines returned the Ark of the Covenant to Israel. How is this an image of the Lord inviting us to escape a faith alone existence? How does the Lord lead us to conjoin our faith with a life of love and charity? | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (24m 40s)
Sitting on a Donkey
Worship Service: Childrens Talk & Adult Sermon - March 29, 2015
The image of the Lord riding into Jerusalem on a donkey is one that most people recognize as a symbol of royalty. Palm Sunday is in part about recognizing the Lord as our eternal King. However, the Heavenly Doctrines help us to understand this image and how the Lord is our King on much more profound level... | By Rev. Matthew L. Genzlinger | West Concord, MA
See Event (32m 58s)