Seniors Faspa - Cornerstone Bible Church

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PASTOR: JARED HIEBERT
ASSOCIATE PASTOR: DOUG REIMER
office@cornerstonebiblechurch.ca
www.cornerstonebiblechurch.ca
Sunday, December 7
10:45 am - Pastor Jared
speaking
Sunday, December 28
10:45 am - Guest Speaker:
Jim Penner
Sunday, December 14
10:45 am - Communion,
Guest Speaker: Mark
Reimer
Sunday, December 21
10:45 am - Guest Speaker:
Ray Ginter
I NSIDE THIS ISSUE :
Wednesday, December 24
6:00 pm - Candlelight
Christmas Eve Service
O
Seniors Faspa
Christmas Eve Service
Seniors Christmas Faspa
Wednesday, December 24
Sunday, December 7th
6 pm - 7 pm
4:00 pm
Carol singing, children’s
feature, devo onal by
Pastor Jared.
At Cornerstone Bible Church
Pastor Jared’s Blog
2
CBC Leadership
5
IT Report
6
Le er to Congrega on
6
Christmas Eve Service
7
IT Report
8
Kitchen Report
8
Babysi ers Course
9
Youth Retreat
10
Youth Ministries
12
Seniors Faspa
13
Student Highlights
14
Prayer Reminders
16
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Pastor
Jared’s
Blog
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In my last blog / newsletter article, I
left you hanging. I stated, quite
boldly, that I am not a dispensationalist. As a result, I do not believe in a
distinction between Israel and the
Church, or in a pre-tribulational rapture. Now I want to show you why
that is. To do so I want to interact,
over the next two articles, with the
first two of the points outlined in the
first chapter of the book, Christ’s
Prophetic Plans. These first two particulars form the heart of dispensational thinking. I will demonstrate
why a dispensational hermeneutic their method of interpreting Scripture (point 1), and their view of Israel
and the Church (point 2-3), and thus
dispensationalism as a belief system
(points 4-6), are incorrect.
Now before we get too far, let me
remind you that there are many different flavours of dispensationalism,
and each one might say things a bit
differently then I outline below. My
intention in these articles is not to
tar and feather anyone, but to get to
the heart of dispensationalism in
such a way that is generally fair and
truly reflective of my dispensational
brothers and sisters in Christ.
Let me outline only the first point
and then summarize it in simpler
terms. We will deal with the second
on its own at a later date.
1.
The meaning of Old Testament texts are not primarily found in New Testament interpretations of
those texts; they are to
be understood literally
as they stand in the Old
Testament. This means,
simply, that Old Testa-
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ment texts, particularly promises
and prophetic passages relating
to national Israel, are capable of
two fulfillments / meanings. That
which is stated in the Old Testament as given to national Israel,
which will be literally fulfilled,
and that which is understood
about it in the New Testament as
it relates to the Church (if the
promise or prophetic passage
relate to the Church). The progress of revelation does not cancel unconditional promises to
Israel.
Summary: Dispensationalists employ
“a consistently literal principle of interpretation”. This principle “is at the
heart of dispensational eschatology.” (Ryrie)
This sounds really good doesn’t it? But, I
would suggest two things that place Ryrie’s
statement in the ‘too good to be true’ category. First, it is notoriously difficult to ascertain a ‘literal’ meaning of the phrase ‘literal
principle of interpretation.’ I won’t get into
this now, but see the following brief, but
helpful article by Vern Poythress which explains the issues (http://
www.the‑highway.com/
literal1_Poythress.html) Suffice it to say, the
‘literal principle of interpretation’ is in danger
of dying the death of thousand qualifications. Second, no dispensationalist actually
holds to this principle, at least not with any
consistency. Read any dispensational, sensationalist book on the end times, or even any
responsible theological text by a dispensationalist, and you will find that they frequently do not follow their own principle. The reason? It is often not possible to read the Bible
‘literally’ given the many different genres of
Scripture. This is a key recognition when it
comes to interpreting Scripture. Quite simp-
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ly, the Bible contains various genres that, when interpreted in light of their nature, a literal interpretation is just not possible. What we must seek is a
literary interpretation. Narrative, law, gospels,
prophecy, apocalyptic, epistles, psalms, proverbs,
all must be interpreted in light of what they are as
a literary text; according to their genre. Thus a
purely ‘literal’ interpretation is rarely possible, especially once we get into the more complex, poetic, and/or symbolic of biblical texts. Try to take
Revelation ‘literally.’ Try to read Daniel ‘literally.’ Try
to read Ecclesiastes, Psalms or the Proverbs,
‘literally.’ And on and on I could go.
witnessed to him, “And beginning with Moses and all
the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” (Luke 24:27) In
short, Jesus understood that all of Scripture witnesses
to him and thus needs to be interpreted in this light. It
also agrees with Paul, when he says that, “For all the
promises of God find their ‘Yes’ in him [Jesus]. That is
why it is through him that we utter our ‘Amen’ to God
for his glory.” (2 Corinthians 1:20). This means that all
of God’s promises, the Old Testament included, are
fulfilled in Christ. It is also the interpretive method of
the author of Hebrews; a perfect example of covenant
theological interpretation of the Old Testament.
Since each biblical text is part of larger book of the
Bible, and that book is part of a larger testament,
and that testament part of the entire Bible, we
need to go further than the text at hand to truly
understand that text. We need to pay attention to
the part that each text plays in the redemptivehistorical story that is being told by the entire Bible. This is where dispensationalism goes awry. It
fails to see each text extending beyond itself. In
particular it does not allow the New Testament to
aid us in our understanding of Old Testament texts.
It fails to allow for the analagia fidei, the ‘analogy
of faith,’ which is the principle that Scripture interprets Scripture. Proper hermeneutics begins interpreting a text with the text in its original context,
its place in history, its genre, its grammar and syntax and verbiage so that you can unpack the original intent. BUT good interpretation does not stop
there. You must also recognize from a biblicaltheological, redemptive-historical standpoint, that
later revelation, by definition, controls the final understanding of earlier revelation. Later revelation
unpacks earlier revelation. In this way, Scripture
interprets Scripture. This is the way of the Covenant
theologian.
Let me just add one specific, yet poignant, example of
where dispensational hermeneutics breaks down:
James’ quotation of Amos 9 in Acts 15 and his bold
declaration that this Old Testament text is now fulfilled. Read these texts, then allow Ligon Duncan, a
fellow covenant theologian, explain the trouble with
dispensational hermeneutics.
This is proper hermeneutics, misapplied by the dispensationalist. But this is no mere battle of theories. Covenantal hermeneutics, fits with the New
Testament authors hermeneutics regarding the Old
Testament. It fits with Luke’s words about Jesus’
hermeneutic as he explained to the men on the
road to Emmaus how ALL of the Old Testament
“Scoffield (sic) himself tells you that the most
important passage in the Bible, from a Dispensational perspective is Amos chapter 9. Well, of
course, Amos chapter 9 is interpreted in Acts
chapter 15, but the interpretation of Amos
chapter 9, that is given in Acts chapter 15 is diametrically opposed to the central principle of
Dispensationalism [the separation of Israel and
the Church]. So how does the Dispensationalist
deal with that? Well, he gives you his “literal interpretation” of Amos 9 and then simply attempts to harmonize the teaching of Acts 15
with his previous literal interpretation of Amos
9, whereas the Covenant Theologian says no,
“James tells you what Amos 9 means in Acts
chapter 15, and therefore, James’ interpretation
must exercise all hermenutical (sic) control even
when you are doing your own original exegesis
of Amos 9.” Because if James says that is what
Amos 9 means, and James is speaking under the
inspiration of the Holy Spirit recorded in Acts
chapter 15, then that is what Amos 9 means. So
you see a fundamentally different approach to
Old Testament and New Testament interpretation.”
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To conclude our look at the interpretive method of dispensationalists we can say that it is clearly deficient. Dispensational interpretation of Scripture is overly-narrow, obsessed with a ‘literal’ interpretive
method that cannot be, and often is not, followed within their own camp, and which does not take
into account the fullness of God’s revelation and the movement of redemptive-history and its fulfilment in Christ. It is also unbiblical, due to its rejection of the way in which the New Testament authors,
and Jesus himself, viewed the Old Testament.
Soli Deo Gloria
If anything written in this blog resonates with you, please do not hesitate to contact me.
UNDERSTANDING
THE BIBLE
AND THE FUTURE.
Come join Pastor Jared for a time of teaching and
discussion. He will be looking at how the Bible presents the end times.
If you have any questions that you would like addressed, submit them to Pastor Jared.
Dec 7, 14, & 21 during the Sunday school hour in
the sanctuary. January dates are tentative and to
be determined as necessary.
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Pastor Jared
Pastor Doug
Dick Bercier (elder), Cam Hiebrt (candidate),
Chad Wiebe (elder chair), Eric Honsberger, Bob Bartel
Darrel & Dianne Hiebert
Billy & Carey Reimer
Tony & Bertha Penner
Deacons
Deacon Candidates
Deacon Candidates
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October 26, 2014
Dear Cornerstone Bible Church,
In light of the upcoming budget, the elders would like to make you aware of what we have been talking about and invite
you to consider together with us the future direction of our church.
Last year we included in the budget a part time hire, possibly for a CE position, that was to start in August of this year. We
ended up putting that on hold for 2 reasons. One, Pastor Jared went on sabbatical and we didn't want to make that move
without his input. And two, as we talked and prayed about it over this past year, a deeper and bigger idea began to form.
As we have gone through the process of prayer and consideration this past year, we began to think more and more of where
our needs are greatest, and where God is growing our church. In light of that process, we are considering adding a new
position of Family Life Pastor sometime in the New Year. We would like this to be a full time position instead of halftime.
This individual would be responsible for the following:
1. To develop family ministries
2. Develop real discipleship in men's and women's ministries
3. Overseeing the community groups
4. Work together with the Deacons
Some preaching and teaching duties
We have seen God working in our church this past year in regards to our growth, our finances, and our vision. We want to
keep in step with what God is doing and be bold as we step out in faith this next year. Last year around this time we were
close to $40,000 in debt, while this year at the same time we are over $20,000 in the good. That is a difference of
$60,000! Praise God!!! We are committed to keeping in step with our no-debt policy as we move forward and are encouraged by how God has blessed us so far.
This doesn't mean that we will be ready to hire someone right away, but budget season is upon us, and we would like to put
this line in the budget as we anticipate God's continued blessing and growth on our church. Please join us in prayer and
faith, and may God grant both wisdom and courage as He supplies all our need.
For the King and for His people.
The Elders
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Join us on December 24 for a
Candlelight Christmas Eve Service
6 pm - 7 pm
Carol singing, children’s feature,
and a short devotional by Pastor Jared
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Cornerstone has found itself in the position to do some amazing things recently. In October, I was informed that
the IT ministry could purchase a couple of TVs, some computer hardware, software, and a video camera in order
to enhance our Sunday morning services. Well, I excitedly went to work ordering equipment, and getting everything set up.
On November 9th we had everything running in a testing phase, and on the 16th, everything was running full
steam!
It is very exciting for me to see this all take shape, not just because the technology is cool, but because I got to
see God working to make worship more enjoyable for those that can't be in the sanctuary. Young moms and
dads are able to be in the nursery, and feel like they are part of the service. Ushers are able to see the stage and
the lyrics to songs from the lobby.
God has certainly blessed us, and it is my hope and prayer that people will benefit spiritually from these upgrades.
In His service,
Quintin Giesbrecht, IT Manager
Wow! The kitchen sure has been busy this past month! Between the youth and our baking times, the oven has been
put to good use!
A big thank you to all the ladies who have come out to help! We have had a lot of fun getting to know each other
better and making new friends! We have been able to bake goodies for our coffee table, for the youth to take with
them to St. Aidan's school, for our upcoming Seniors Faspa, and also for our preschool class as well as the Sunday
morning childcare.
I'm so encouraged by the willingness of others who want to come and help, It's that willingness that makes it such a
joy to plan events. I hope to see more faces in the future come out and spend the time with us. It is really great to
have such a big kitchen that we can use to serve and bless others. I'm looking forward to the new year and more
opportunities for the kitchen to serve our church family as well as more opportunities to get to know each other
better.
The kitchen is always accepting donations of single serving tea/coffee/etc. If you have some in your cupboard that
you don't love, just leave them on the counter in the kitchen and I can take it from there. Cold drinks are welcome
too, as long as they are single serving sizes. This is a great way to empty your cupboard of unwanted flavors and It
gives others a chance to try a flavor that interests them!
Also, I am still looking for volunteers to help out with potluck as well as making coffee on Sunday mornings. These
are very easy ways which you can serve within the church without having to make a big commitment. If you would
like to serve in either of these areas you can let me know either by phone, email or in person!
Merry Christmas!
Andrea Sawatzky, Kitchen Coordinator
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RED CROSS BABYSITTERS COURSE
At Cornerstone Bible Church
Friday, January 30th (no school day)
9 am - 4pm
Instructor: Jacqui Broesky
Jacqui Broesky is a Red Cross certified first aid and CPR instructor as well as a training partner for the Canadian Red Cross. She comes with many years experience in the first aid field.
Jacqui offers babysitting training to churches for a reduced cost of $25 per student, to help
meet the needs for child care within the church. Jacqui says “ God has blessed me so
much with my business, and this is one way I can use my business for ministry.”
We need a minimum of 8-10 students to sign up in order for this class to be made available
to us. Students must be age 11 and up. Please inform the office ASAP if you are interested
in signing up for this course.
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N OVEMBER 7-9 2014
At the beginning of November, the Cornerstone High School
Youth got the chance
to trade busyness and
technology for nature,
fellowship and God at
Red Rock Bible Camp.
Our Adventure began
on Friday evening. After
the 1 1/2 hour drive,
we settled in and enjoyed some free-time
before our first session.
Our weekend sessions
were filled with great
sermons from godly
messages hit home.
We discussed what it means to suffer for Christ
and how to take risks. We met in small groups to
discuss how we can take risks for God, and were
encouraged to follow-up on one another, making
sure we do not simply sit complacently, but rather
embrace the life that God has given us to the fullest.
Saturday was a day packed with many things. A
highlight for many of the day was our nature hike,
which took up most of the afternoon. While it was
a little chilly, everyone enjoyed the time outdoor
with friends. Even though we didn’t quite make it
to our final destination, the afternoon was enjoyed
by everyone.
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Our free time was filled with many activities, such as pool, ping- pong,
catch phrase, talking and other random things.
We enjoyed plenty of really good food and the view was absolutely
amazing. Overall, the weekend was fun-filled and also helped us not
only grow our relationship with each other, but also with the Lord.
Sandra Reimer (Youth Leader)
I
THINK THE S ILENT R ETREAT WAS MY FAVOURITE PART . D OUG
GAVE US ALL THE SAME PASSAGES ( MATTHEW 5-7) AND EVEN
THOUGH IT WAS JUST GENERAL , I THINK IT WAS AMAZING HOW I
WAS REMINDED TO BE PATIENT AND NOT BE ANXIOUS . (M ATTHEW
6:23-34). J UGGLING LIFE AND ALL ITS OBSTACLES MAKES THIS
HARD TO LIVE OUT SOMETIMES , B UT IT TRULY IS IMPORTANT TO
RELY ON G OD FULLY , AND IN EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR LIFE .
-K AYLEE W IEBE
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Youth News
Pursuing |Serving | Connecting
B IBLE S TUDY
We’re currently walking through
the book of Mark. For many of us
its a first reading of a Gospel asking the question, Who is Jesus?
Pray for God’s work in applying
His word to our hearts as we
study.
A LWAYS C HANGING
St. Aidan’s
We’re so exited that the Lord has
seen fit to bring a very eclectic
group of youth together this year.
2/3 of our group is currently coming from the community and not
Cornerstone, many of which do
not have a church home. Please
pray for the Holy Spirit’s work in
our group.
A new element of high school youth this year is our monthly
visits to St. Aidan’s Christian school in downtown Winnipeg
(running out of Calvary Temple). St. Aidan’s is a school made up
mostly of kids in Canada as refugees (ages 6-19). We go monthly
to do aMer school programming and various work projects. The
long term vision is to build rela onships with these young people to encourage and strengthen mutually. We’ve been having a
ton of fun playing games, pain ng, playing basketball, helping
with their music program, wrapping presents, ea ng snacks etc.
Also, its been a great me to build friendships on the way in and
out of Winnipeg in our vehicles.
Y OUTH C AFÉ
As the group of people that make
up our High School youth group
changes our needs change as well.
Please pray as to whether this
spring is an appropriate time to
reopen the youth cafe
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Please pray for the college & university students of
Cornerstone. Each newsletter will feature the students listed
in the monthly prayer reminders found at the end of each
newsletter.
Kara Greywood
School - University of Manitoba
Jordan Klassen
School - School: University of Manitoba, Health Sciences
Campus
Studying - Program: Dental Hygiene
Year - Currently in year 2 of 3
Prayer requests - Hi everyone! As this Newsletter will be
coming out, I will be in the thick of exams! Please pray for me
and my wife, Jess, that God would give us the strength, focus, and the smarts to make it through this especially tough
portion of the program. Please also pray that I could be a
light to all my colleagues and share the love of Christ with
them.
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Devan Hiebert
School - University of Manitoba
Studying - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Year - Currently in year 3 of 5
Prayer requests - Remaining focused on classes. Getting
into the classes I need. That my exams will go well.
Dale & Izzy Hiebert
School - Dale: Providence University College
Izzy: University Of Manitoba
Studying - Dale: studying psychology, then moving on to
graduate studies in counselling
Izzy: Nursing
Year - Dale: in my second of three years
Izzy: in my third year of four
Prayer Requests - Dale: Balancing marriage, school work,
church ministries, and a part time job can be a delicate art.
Striving for excellence in each one of them is even harder.
Christ must be the foundation on which I stand to achieve any
amount of success, so prayer for diligence in seeking Christ first
would be a great blessing to me. Pray also for much wisdom in
navigating the "trials of various kinds."
Izzy: Pray that I would consistently choose the Lord,
then my husband, then my church/friends, and then school. In
that order. Pray I would take every opportunity to share the gospel. Pray I would not get bogged down by the darkness that surrounds the university, but cling to Jesus and walk in the light.
Prayer Reminders for December
Dec 7 - 13
Dec 14 - 20
Dec 21 - 27
Jeremy & Jen Reimer
Peter Reimer
Helen Rempel
Dec 28 - Jan 3
Tim & Andrea Sawatzky
Arielle, Gabriel
Families of
the week
Shane & Sandra Reimer
Laura Reimer
Janice Rempel
Timothy
Josh & Andrea Screpnek
Iain, Abigail
Missionary
Greg & Julie Dole
Sam & Melody Kuka
Greg & Julie Dole
Sam & Melody Kuka
of the week
Franklin, Isaac, Jaclynn
Gabriel, Angelie, Sariel
Franklin, Isaac, Jaclynn
Gabriel, Angelie, Sariel
Missions
Property & Finance
Library
Family Ministries
Kara Greywood
Dale & Izzy Hiebert
Devan Hiebert
Jordan Klassen
FEBC Commission on
Outreach
Hodgson Bible Church
Gospel of Grace Church
Hodgson, MB
Hooker, Oklahoma
Ministry of
College/
FEBC Church
Of the week
Faith Evangelical
Bible Church
Henderson, Nebraska