The authority for Pastor John's remarks this morning come from the Gospel according to Matthew chapter 28 starting with verse 16.

But the 11 disciples proceeded to Galilee

to the mountain which Jesus had designated,

and when they saw him, they some were doubtful. And Jesus came up and spoke to them saying all authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations,

baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit,

teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.

And lo, I am with you, always, even to the end of the age. Lord that promise includes this message and this moment in this service.

Authority belongs to you now over this service and you'll be with me as I try to

unfold this truth from your word and I cherish those two promises. If I had to lean on my own authority or if I had to

wonder if you were here to help me I would despair but you have spoken all authority is yours

and I will be with you to the end of these services, the end of this day and the end of this age and forever.

It's a very precious thing to me as it is to hundreds of people in this room to know that

the Christ who is alive will be with us.

So now come and make yourself known.

That's what I asked for at the beginning, it's I asked for again,

that you, Jesus Christ would be known for who you really are.

Because when you're known for who you really are, we believe you.

It's only distortions that drive us away.

It's only the clouds of sin and unbelief that keep us from seeing you.

So come, please. And reveal yourself now in power.

In your name I pray,

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