Ordained elder H. Zabiak read out Lamentations 3:22-23 and opened the worship service in prayer. After an uplifting praise and worship session led by the worship team, he dedicated the offerings to the Lord.
Pastor Dr Suankhanhau welcomed the visiting pastors, ordained elders and first timers to the church and delved into the scripture portion for the Bible study i,e 2 Corinthians 2:1-17 (Lessons 4&5). He introduced the two underlying themes in the scripture portion – forgiveness for those who sinned and fragrance of Christ. He also explained the reasons for Paul’s change of plans to visit the Corinthian church viz, so that he would not come in sorrow and would not be a burden to them because of the admonition he would give. Important points highlighted during the Bible study are as under:-
· Just as Paul appealed to the Corinthian church to forgive the offender, all of us are invited to forgive one another.
· Church discipline is important and must be done out of love. Those who turn back from their sins ought to be forgiven so that satan may not take advantage.
· Despite the hardships and sufferings he faced, Paul always lives a victorious life. Likewise, all believers can enjoy victorious life through Christ.
· We should live the gospel, willing to forsake everything and die for Christ.
· If the gospel does not change us or discipline us, something is lacking.
· We are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ. All believers ought to be an aroma that brings life and not an aroma that brings death.
The Worship Service ended with a benediction by ordained elder T. Thiankhanmuan.
