First Congregational Church of Buena Park

09/15/2026

When a friend told me that he had cancer, he seemed positive about his future. From his vantage point, he could live a longer time or shorter time, but he knew the Lord was with him and that he would be with the Lord. And while the cancer took him sooner rather than later, he had written, “I believe that God…is working good out of [this cancer]” (Svendsen, 43). I admired his faith and in my last conversation with him as he said, “Goodbye,” he had comfort in knowing that the Lord was with him and that his suffering would soon cease. Here are “Three Things to Know About Suffering” (1 Peter 4:12-16) so that we can move forward with joy in serving the Lord.

SUFFERING IS PART OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE

Suffering is part of the Christian life (1 Peter 4:12). The Apostle Peter didn’t want these believers to “be surprised” at their “fiery ordeal” that tested them as if it was unusual (1 Peter 4:12, NASB). All people suffer, including believers. And the Lord wanted them to know and wants us to know that suffering is part of the Christian life.

We sometimes mistake our suffering or the way we feel for God’s condemnation. But your suffering doesn’t mean that God has abandoned you or condemns you. He loves you. The writer to the Hebrews said that God disciplines us as a father does his sons. And because God is perfect, He always has good intentions in mind. While “discipline for the moment seems” unpleasant, the Bible says that “it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness” in the end (Heb. 12:7-11, esp. v. 11, NASB).

Maybe you’re suffering in ways you never thought you would. Maybe you’re struggling with an addiction, have a difficult family situation, or have financial problems. Know the Lord cares and that in Jesus Christ, you’re forgiven and blessed with His presence. Trust Him with your life and everything you’re going through. Don’t fall back into an addiction or waste your time or your treasure. Steward your life and everything you have before the Lord. Develop a routine that puts God first. Pray to Him about your hardship every day. Go in a way that’s in line with what He says is good, and you will be blessed with “the peaceful fruit of righteousness” in the end (Heb. 12:11, NASB).

SUFFERING DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN SADNESS

Suffering doesn’t always mean sadness (1 Peter 4:13-14). The Apostle Peter encouraged these believers to know that they “share the sufferings of Christ,” that they should “keep on rejoicing” because they have this spiritual union with Jesus, and that when Jesus’ glory would be revealed that they would “rejoice with exultation” (1 Peter 4:13-14, NASB). The Lord wanted them to know and wants us to know that we can have joy even in hardship.

Many of us were surprised about the passing of our dear brother, Ramon Paredes. Goya’s moving forward in taking care of the issues she has to while she’s grieving. She’s having to rely on the Lord and His strength. She’s finding help from the Lord and from others, and it’s my prayer that she finds comfort and that the service we have for Ramon will be part of the process of healing.
This world doesn’t know how to find true blessing in hardship and suffering. But we can find joy from Jesus. The Apostle Paul suffered, but wrote about having true joy. With the Apostle Paul, let’s “value…Christ Jesus” our “Lord” and “the righteousness which comes from God” through “faith,” and let’s draw from “the power of” Christ’s “resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings” when we’re having a hard time (Phil. 3:7-11, esp. vv. 8-10, NASB). In doing so, we’ll find encouragement and joy.

Do things in line with valuing Jesus and what He’s done for you: He died for your sins and rose again, and through faith in Him, you’re assured of eternal life. Spend time praying to the Lord, thanking Him for all that He’s done for you through Jesus. Call upon God as your Father. Thank Jesus for His suffering. Thank Jesus for His resurrection. Thank Him for His presence with you, and thank God for giving you eternal life.

Don’t miss the good things God’s given you just because other things in your life are difficult now. Ask for strength to enjoy the Lord Himself and enjoy the good that He has for you in your relationships, in serving in the church, and look forward to good things He has for you. Know that one day, this hardship will cease—if not in this life, then after the Lord takes you home. Pray, “Lord, I value You because You have loved me, have died for me, and have rose again for me. Strengthen me in my suffering and through my suffering for Your service, that You would move me into the good that You have for me.”

SUFFERING CAN GLORIFY GOD

Suffering can glorify God (1 Peter 4:15-16). The Apostle Peter encouraged these believers to ensure that they don’t suffer because of sins like murder, stealing, doing evil, or being “a troublesome meddler,” which means to meddle in “others’ affairs,” “but…to glorify God” by suffering as a “Christian” without shame (1 Peter 4:15-16, NASB, including Side Note on v. 15).

Because suffering involves pain, we sometimes become self-focused when we suffer. We spiral down into self-pity and get angry. But let’s look outside of ourselves. We’re called by the name of Christ. Let’s look up to the Lord. Let’s know that we’re blessed in the heavenly realm, and reach out to others through Jesus with the Lord’s great compassion.

Would you begin to rejoice in God even if you’re suffering? Would you do the good the Lord’s called you to and bless others? Pray, “God, I rejoice that You’re with me. I rejoice that You have good for me. And I rejoice that You’ve called me to bless others. I lift my heart to You in praise. Please help me to move forward in Your love, in Jesus’ Name.”

BE BLESSED EVEN THROUGH SUFFERING

Be blessed even through suffering! Suffering is part of the Christian life. Suffering doesn’t always mean sadness. Suffering can glorify God. As we understand these things and trust the Lord, we’ll move forward with joy in our service and glorify the Lord of glory!

News Items:

- Special thanks to all who have helped clean on Sundays and other times, to our Praise Choir, and to Troy and Fernando for work around the building, and to those who serve on our boards: Diaconate, Trustees, and Church Council! It’s because of you that our church can move forward in serving the Lord!
- Please continue to keep Goya in your prayers regarding the passing of her husband, Ramon Paredes. Ray was a blessing to our church family and will be dearly missed. Details about a memorial service for Ray will be forthcoming.
- Potluck this Sunday – please feel free to bring a food item or drink
- Please check out our website at: https://fccbp.org/
- Canned food is available in our Food Pantry. Special thanks to Jessy as well as Cristina & Mon for providing the food!
- Our “Raise the Roof” fundraiser is ongoing, and we thank you so much for your support!

Here is the Calendar for First Congregational Church of Buena Park:

- Tuesday: Men’s Group is changing to Tuesdays. Join us on Tuesday, 9/15 at 5:30pm
- Wednesday: Praise Choir practice is on 9/16 at 7:30pm
- Friday: Please join us as we remember the life of Ramon (Ray) Paredes (8/30/40-8/21/26), beloved husband, caring father, and sincere friend. The service is at church on Friday, 9/18/26, at 10am to remember and celebrate his life, followed by the committal at Anaheim Cemetery.
- Friday: Bible Study is on 9/18 at 6:30pm
- Sunday: Please join us on Sunday, 9/20, for our 10am church service and potluck.

Thank you so much for praying for the people of our church!

Richest Blessings!

John Peters, Pastor

WORKS CITED

“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.” NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE. NASB Side-Column Reference Edition (Anaheim, CA: Foundation Publications, 1996).

John N. Svendsen, "Reflections of a Cancer Patient: A Pastor Looks Back on His Stage IV Cancer" (John N. Svendsen, published through Amazon, 2019).

09/10/2026

Please join us at First Congregational Church of Buena Park this Lord’s Day, Sunday, 9/13 at 10am, to praise God and be built up through His Word. Please also join us for a potluck after service, and feel free to bring food/drink/dessert if you would like. Thank you!

Order of Service:

Call to Worship and Invocation Prayer: Psalm 125:1-2

Hymn: “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee,” 50

Offering and Offering Prayer

Hymn: “Step by Step,” 368

Please greet your neighbor in Christ’s name!

Announcements and News Updates:

• Please follow us on social media & check out our website at https://fccbp.org/
• Attendance Book
• Church Information is Available
• Food Available
• Christian Baptism
• Church Weddings
• Church Potlucks
• No Church Council Meeting Today
• “Raise the Roof” fundraiser – thank you!
• We continue to pray for Goya with the loss of her husband, Ramon. The date of the memorial service is Friday, 9/18 at 10am, at our church.
• Tuesday: Men’s Group on 9/15 at 5:30pm
• Wednesday: Praise Choir practice on 9/16 at 7:30pm
• Thursday: Buena Park Ministerial Association on 9/17 at 10am
• Friday: Memorial Service for Ramon Paredes on 9/18 at 10am
• Friday: Bible Study on 9/18 at 6:30pm

Special Music: “I Will Call Upon the Lord,” Praise Choir

Pastoral Prayer / The Lord’s Prayer

Hymn: “My Savior’s Love,” 152

Christian Education: 2. “I know that following Jesus’ commands to love my neighbors, love my enemies, and to treat people as I want to be treated is the best way to live.” “The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF’” (Matt. 22:39, NASB). “But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt. 5:44, NASB). “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12, NASB).

The Apostles’ Creed: “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: And in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; He descended to the dead; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the one holy universal Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen.” From: Evangelical Association, “Creeds” (https://evangelicalassociation.org/?page_id=131).

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-16; Philippians 3:7-11; Hebrews 12:7-11

Message: Here are “Three Things to Know About Suffering” (1 Peter 4:12-16) so that we can move forward with joy in serving the Lord.

• Suffering is part of the Christian life (1 Peter 4:12; Heb. 12:7-11).
• Suffering doesn’t always mean sadness (1 Peter 4:13-14; Phil. 3:7-11).
• Suffering can glorify God (1 Peter 4:15-16).

As we understand these things and trust the Lord, we’ll move forward with joy in our service and glorify the Lord of glory!

Benediction

Doxology

09/07/2026

In my “Discipleship” class, Dr. Bob Smart encouraged us to think about our entire lives in view of being students of Jesus — to make every decision in view of our lives as disciples, or learners, of the Lord. He shared about using our time wisely, how he and his wife are creative yet frugal when buying clothing and furniture, how it’s important to be generous with God’s gifts to us, and that it’s important to ensure that our families truly reflect Christ’s love (Smart, “Discipleship,” lecture on 7/21/2026; recording). He encourages people to be intentional in every decision they make and with everything they have and do. In view of the Lord’s call on our lives, here are “Three Things to Be Intentional About in Serving the Lord” (1 Peter 4:7-11) to find contentment and blessing as we move forward in the Christian life.

BE INTENTIONAL IN PRAYER

Be intentional in prayer (1 Peter 4:7). The Apostle Peter encouraged believers to have “sound judgment” to help them pray since the final stage of history “has come near” (1 Peter 4:7, NASB, including the NASB sidenote on v. 7 for a literal translation). God encourages us to understand the importance of our lives right here and now in this stage of human history to come to Him with thanksgiving and ask Him to meet our needs and the needs of others.

Troy Huddleston’s Dad, who served as pastor of a church in Compton. He knew the importance of prayer and used short sayings to encourage people. Troy said that he would sometimes have those sayings on pins he would wear. He encouraged people to pray when he said, “Seven days without prayer makes one weak.”

We sometimes get in the way of ourselves when we pray, but there are a few things to remember to assist us in prayer for God’s strength and blessing.

First, we should never say, “I just don’t know what to pray.” We can always pray the Lord’s Prayer, which is the prayer Jesus gave us in Scripture for our blessing and the blessing of others (Matt. 6:9-13). Second, we can remember the popular acronym, “ACTS,” which stands for “Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication” as themes to focus on in prayer (Navigators). In other words, we can adore God, confess our sins to God, express what we’re thankful for, and ask God for what we and others need. Third, we can remember the Apostle Paul’s words to not be “anxious” but to ask God for our “requests” “with thanksgiving” and with the promise of His “peace” (Phil. 4:6-7, NASB).

The Lord wants you to pray, and you have an audience with the Lord of glory! Jesus died for our sins and rose again so that we can belong to God and pray to God. We’re forgiven through faith in Him, and we can come to God because Jesus is at the Father’s right hand for us. Would you make prayer a regular part of your life and, as the Apostle Peter encouraged, be intentional in prayer?

BE INTENTIONAL IN LOVE

Be intentional in love (1 Peter 4:8-9). The Apostle Peter encouraged believers to “keep fervent in” loving others despite their faults and to “Be hospitable…without” complaining (1 Peter 4:7-8, NASB). Rather than be quick to point out each other’s faults, the Lord encourages us to more literally “stretch out,” strain, or “intently,” strenuously,” and “earnestly” love others (Vine, 420; cf. 1 Peter 4:8).
This world sees love as only a feeling, but love is really a quality that we demonstrate through our lives. Jesus demonstrated love when He came here for us, lived among us, and gave His life on the cross for our forgiveness.

But the problem is that we sometimes decide that someone is unlovable. Someone may test our patience. Someone may seem to only focus on what he wants. Someone may be unwise, unwell, and unwilling to see how his actions affect others around him. But isn’t that how we were without Jesus, and sometimes how we are now, too?

Jesus was kind to us when we were running long into the night. He embraces us with nail-pierced hands of forgiveness and gives us His resurrection as a sign of His great victory! Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die” (John 11:25-26, NASB, partial passage quoted).

Since the Lord has loved us, forgives us, and gives us eternal life through faith in Him, let’s strain ourselves to love. Let’s want the best for others like Jesus wants the best for us. Let’s stretch out in love and demonstrate patience toward even people that others have said were unlovable. Let’s be like Jesus and stand alongside others to show His kindness. We can pray, “Jesus, thank You that You love me. Thank You that You died for my sins. Thank You that You rose again for me. Help me to love because of Your love. And please guide me into blessing as I reach out to others.”

BE INTENTIONAL IN USING YOUR GIFTS

Be intentional in using your gifts (1 Peter 4:10-11). The Apostle Peter encouraged believers to understand that “each one” of them was given “a” spiritual “gift” from God to carefully steward in the lives of others to glorify God and find blessing (1 Peter 4:10-11, esp. v. 10, NASB). The Lord wants us to be around others and carefully use our gifts — “speaking” God’s words and serving in God’s strength (1 Peter 4:11, NASB) — to get to know others and determine how we can bless them.

In the early 1600s, the Congregationalists in Scrooby, England came to see that God gives believers and churches gifts to use to serve Him (“Scrooby Congregation”). They would have reasoned that since the Apostle Paul said that when Jesus “ascended” to the Father’s right hand and gave “pastors and teachers” to equip others “for the work of service” to build up Christ’s body (Eph. 4:7-13, esp. vv. 9, 11, 12, NASB), that the Lord’s gifts didn’t come through the King or the Archbishop appointed by the King. They reasoned that Jesus blessed each local church or congregation with His gifts; and therefore, each local congregation could appoint their own leaders and trust in Jesus for His presence and His guidance (confirmed these sentiments with Google AI search).

In this congregation, a man named Richard Clyfton was their Pastor; William Brewster was their Ruling Elder; and John Robinson was their Teacher (Haueisen). These elders weren’t appointed by the king or a bishop outside of their congregation. This group, which became the Pilgrims, had separated from the Anglican Church and went to Holland (“Scrooby Congregation”), and then later, came to the American shore in 1620 on the Mayflower to start the settlement of Plymouth Plantation (“Pilgrims (Plymouth Colony)”).

Just as with the Pilgrims centuries ago, would you see that you have a gift from the Lord? This gift was given to you directly by God and from God. And He wants to bless you in using your gift, and He wants to bless others through your gift.

Spend time with Jesus, the Giver of your gift. Pray to Him each day for strength and guidance. Josh White sang, “Ever since I’ve been acquainted with Jesus, we haven’t been a minute apart” (White). Jesus is with you. Ask the Lord to guide you in discerning your gift and using your gift with God’s people and here in our congregation.

Develop relationships with other believers. Seeing the faith of others demonstrated and hearing stories of faith builds us up in the soul. When I first came to our church, Tomas shared how he had gone to lunch with some of the ladies who had been here a long time: Francis, Connie, and Carol. He understood the sincere faith of Francis, which greatly encouraged him, and he would often talk about Francis.

The Apostle Paul knew that the Holy Spirit encourages us in God’s faithfulness through others. He had such joy because of God’s faithfulness to the Thessalonians! He wrote that he “always” thanked God for them because of their “work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in…Jesus” (1 Thess. 1:2-3, NASB). Let’s value the examples of others and encourage our families and friends with their examples.

Would you find joy in developing relationships with other believers to be encouraged in God’s faithfulness? Take the next step to get to know other Christians in our church. Find the joy of being encouraged by the faith of someone today. Pray, “Lord, please help me to discern my gift and develop friendships to use my gift, that You would be glorified and that others would be blessed. In Jesus’ name.”

BE INTENTIONAL IN SERVING THE LORD

Be intentional in serving the Lord! Be intentional in prayer. Be intentional in love. Be intentional in using your gifts. As we do so, we’ll find contentment, joy, and blessing for ourselves and others!

News Items:

- Special thanks to all who have helped clean on Sundays and other times, to our Praise Choir, and to Troy and Fernando for work around the building, and to those who serve on our boards: Diaconate, Trustees, and Church Council! It’s because of you that our church can move forward in serving the Lord!
- Please continue to keep Goya in your prayers regarding the passing of her husband, Raymon Paredes. Ray was a blessing to our church family and will be dearly missed. Details about a memorial service for Ray will be forthcoming.
- Potluck this Sunday – please feel free to bring a food item or drink
- Please check out our website at: https://fccbp.org/
- Canned food is available in our Food Pantry. Special thanks to Jessy as well as Cristina & Mon for providing the food!
- Our “Raise the Roof” fundraiser is ongoing, and we thank you so much for your support!

Here is the Calendar for First Congregational Church of Buena Park:

- Monday: No Men’s Group on 9/07 due to the Labor Day holiday
- Wednesday: Praise Choir practice on 9/09 at 7:30pm
- Friday: There is no Bible Study but there are 2 Prayer Events for the 25th Anniversary of 9/11: Prayer Events are at 12pm and 6pm across the street at the Buena Park Police Fallen Officer Memorial. We will participate in the 6pm Prayer Event instead of have Bible Study.
- Sunday: Please join us on Sunday, 9/13 for our 10am church service and potluck. Our Trustees and Church Council meetings will follow. Thank you!

Thank you for praying for the people of our church!

Richest Blessings!

John Peters, Pastor

WORKS CITED

“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE, Copyright 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.” NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE. NASB Side-Column Reference Edition (Anaheim, CA: Foundation Publications, 1996).

Google Search, Google AI, “john robinson on ephesians 4:7-13 about pastors and teachers being appointed for each church” (https://www.google.com/search?q=john+robinson+on+ephesians+4%3A7-13+about+pastors+and+teachers+being+appointed+for+each+church&sca_esv=1ef0e7d2c88f1940&sxsrf=APpeQntPmdOQduSHPkT4jd6nvD845rFl5Q%3A1788561510839&udm=50&fbs=ABfTbFVyMZGZf1hfvX9uKjN_-G8cqu7ocb7U6ah0xpkIrGMK4CuEddQ3ZmQozcvkgnTNQKj906-ORFIK2UR8msyEJBwjUS39D6JgDwx4EJKSNHdbGpWyvzZFKjQ25pwpnF5NO9nGwDb9CrlVp8MtTIdiz5TnQOghI6R-CDzJaRlWbyRYfvknHlHhpfFrArw4j0nX3xiHJbkor0CcpJ0-BsKLOEAj3FDUbg&vsint=&aep=1&ntc=1&cs=0&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiosYzs_tWWAxWeI0QIHWVgOiIQ2J8OegQIEhAD&biw=1600&bih=731&dpr=1&mstk=AUtExfBmZTbQnlIZLLh682PvUnEkzhRWYveIYpxnPROvOgPBhUVpA03S8zB-Np5OepCC2eZukjn8_oWY515KoEcVH8YDHBIcr9ntaZeQWq4vgZFIIUU8RH51Hw49rj38jM5LeSkVogPxW_XQjKt0wQW7fPud8ooBbz2IIxbEshrqldkhq8ArQqzt-hUW9glbY3WgQKR1AxOI1aapQzFXUSd0bgxPTGsBXi1SPwizmWCb0eqm2ClEN5fdZzL53A&csuir=1&atvm=2). Retrieved on 9/04/2026.

Kathryn Haueisen, “Leaving England,” How Wise Then (https://howwisethen.com/leaving-england/). Retrieved 9/01/2026.

Navigators, “Resources,” “ACTS Prayer Model” (https://www.navigators.org/resource/acts-prayer-model/). Retrieved on 9/02/2026.

“Pilgrims (Plymouth Colony),” Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilgrims_(Plymouth_Colony)); retrieved on 9/01/2026.

“Scrooby Congregation,” Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrooby_Congregation); retrieved on 9/01/2026 and 9/04/2026.

Robert Davis Smart, “Discipleship” class through Birmingham Theological Seminary, Lecture on 7/21/2026. Recording.

W. E. Vine, "An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words with their Precise Meanings for English Readers," One-Volume Edition, with forwards by W. Graham Scroggie and F. F. Bruce (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1952).

Josh White, “Jesus Gonna Make Up My Dying Bed,” , YouTube (https://youtu.be/iEMirwb5eew?is=EAVtuHEzrD04wpPH); Retrieved on 9/03/2026.

09/07/2026

"Three Things to Be Inentional About in Serving the Lord"

Here are “Three Things to Be Intentional About in Serving the Lord”...

09/03/2026

Please join us at First Congregational Church of Buena Park this Lord’s Day, Sunday, 9/06 at 10am, to sing to the Lord together, receive Communion, and be built-up through His Word. Please also join us for a potluck after service, and feel free to bring food/drink/dessert if you would like. Thank you!

Order of Service:

Call to Worship and Invocation Prayer: Psalm 31:1-3

Hymn: “A Mighty Fortress,” 35

Offering and Offering Prayer

Hymn: “O, for a Thousand Tongues,” 202

Please greet your neighbor in Christ’s name!

Announcements and News Updates:

• Please follow us on social media & check out our website at https://fccbp.org/
• Attendance Book
• Church Information is Available
• Bulletin Design
• Food Available
• Christian Baptism
• Church Weddings
• Church Potlucks
• Board of Diaconate Meeting
• Ushers for Offering
• Special thanks to our Praise Choir!
• Special thanks to everyone who has helped in the kitchen & cleanup!
• Special thanks to Troy and Fernando!
• Special thanks to those who work in the church’s Finance Office!
• “Raise the Roof” fundraiser – thank you!
• We continue to pray for Goya with the loss of her husband, Ramon. The date of his memorial service is to be determined
• Monday: Men’s Group on 9/07 at 5:30pm
• Wednesday: Praise Choir practice on 9/09 at 7:30pm
• Friday on 9/11: Prayer Events at 12pm and 6pm Prayer Events across the street at the Buena Park Police Fallen Officer Memorial. On 9/11, we will participate in the 6pm Prayer Event instead of have Bible Study.

Special Music: “The Gift of Love,” 451, with our Praise Choir

Pastoral Prayer / The Lord’s Prayer

Hymn: “Jesus Saves,” 528

Christian Education: “Three Things to Know for Blessing in My Life: A Catechism for Adults and Children” 1. “I know God’s love and am going to heaven because Jesus died for my sins and rose again.” “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16, NASB).

The Apostles’ Creed: “I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: And in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried; He descended to the dead; the third day He rose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the one holy universal Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. Amen.” From: Evangelical Association, “Creeds” (https://evangelicalassociation.org/?page_id=131).

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:7-11; John 11:25-26; Ephesians 4:7-13

Message: Here are “Three Things to Be Intentional About in Serving the Lord” (1 Peter 4:7-11) to find contentment and blessing as we move forward in the Christian life.

• Be intentional in prayer (1 Peter 4:7).
• Be intentional in love (1 Peter 4:8-9; John 11:25-26).
• Be intentional in using your gifts (1 Peter 4:10-11; Eph. 4:7-13).

As we do so, we’ll find contentment, joy, and blessing for ourselves and others!

Communion / The Lord’s Supper: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Benediction

Doxology

09/03/2026

Do you want to internalize the basics of the Christian faith for your wellbing? This very short catechsim includes 3 short affirmations with key Bible verses to teach and remind us of the basics. I hope it helps someone today!

"Three Things to Know for Blessing in My Life: A Catechism for Adults and Children"

You and your family are important to the Lord! And sometimes we just need to be encouraged in the basics: What God has done for us and wants for us for our good! These three basic teachings in quotations are supported by Jesus’ teachings in the Bible. They can be read, memorized, and taught to your children so that you and your family are blessed. Thank you and God richly bless you and your family!

What are “Three Things to Know for Blessing in My Life”?

1. “I know God’s love and am going to heaven because Jesus died for my sins and rose again.”

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

2. “I know that following Jesus’ commands to love my neighbors, love my enemies, and to treat people as I want to be treated is the best way to live.”

“The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF’” (Matt. 22:39).

“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt. 5:44).

“In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matt. 7:12).

3. “I know that the Lord is my Dearest Friend, is with me, and will lead me into good things.”

“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters” (Psalm 23:1-2).

Prayer of Response: “Father, thank You that You love and accept me because of Jesus. Please grant me a deep sense of Your acceptance and Your friendship as I serve You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Work Cited

“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.”

08/31/2026

I’m fascinated by what people think about Orange County in the 1980’s, when I was a kid. The malls were bustling, the arcades were full, and families were focused on meat and potatoes issues to get by. Whatever mistakes we made and whatever difficulties we experienced in our youth, some of us believe we took a lot for granted and wish we better appreciated the blessings of the people and places around us. Whatever our perception of the past, though, the Lord wants us to move forward with a sense of His acceptance through Jesus and a sense of hope for our future! Here are “Three Ways to Move Toward Hope” (1 Peter 4:1-6) for our encouragement and blessing.

RESIST BAD DESIRES, KNOWING JESUS’ KINDNESS

Resist bad desires, knowing Jesus’ kindness (1 Peter 4:1-5). The Apostle Peter wrote that Jesus lovingly “suffered in the flesh” — meaning that He suffered when He lived His life on earth — and the Apostle Peter exhorted believers to be ready to suffer to resist what’s bad for us: “lusts, drunkenness,” and “abominable idolatries,” even when others don’t understand and push back against us (1 Peter 4:1-5, esp. vv. 1, 3, NASB). The Apostle Peter encourages us to avoid “debaucheries” and “drinking bouts” here (1 Peter 4:3, Marshall, 918). The Lord doesn’t want us to give in to desires or engage in behaviors that will leave us debased or in a stupor. And Jesus’ kindness and example of suffering in His earthly life helps us fight against bad desires.

You may have heard the expression, “Life isn’t a bowl of cherries” — life isn’t always easy. Rather than give in to feelings are desires that aren’t good for us, the Lord wants us to resist. Trust in the Lord and meditate on Jesus’ example — the perfect God-man who lived among us and suffered for us — to give you hope.

Your Savior loves you and is with you. He died to pay for your sins and rose again from the dead. Don’t let your feelings and sinful desires take the wind out of you, cause you to despair, or influence you to shrink back. Jesus understands and went through hardship Himself. Trust in Him; know that He forgives you; rely on Him in your soul; and ask for His help to avoid what’s bad for you. Pray, “Jesus, thank You that You died and rose again to forgive me. Please cleanse me and strengthen me deep in my soul, and help me to take the next step You have for me in my life.”

PURSUE GOOD DESIRES, KNOWING JESUS’ GUIDANCE

Pursue good desires, knowing Jesus’ guidance (1 Peter 4:1-2). The Apostle Peter exhorted believers to “live the rest of the time in the flesh,” or in our earthly life, “for the will of God” (1 Peter 4:1-2, esp. v. 2, NASB). The Greek word translated as “will” (1 Peter, 4:2, Marshall, 918) can be understood as “DESIRE” (Vine, 289-290, esp. p. 289). As we follow God’s desires, we’ll be encouraged and blessed!

Follow God’s desires for you. No matter your past, with Jesus’ there’s always hope! Jesus is your Good Shepherd. The Lord promises guidance into “green pastures” and “beside quiet waters,” “through the valley of the shadow of death,” and sets “a table before” us “in the presence of” our “enemies” (Psalm 23:1-6, esp. vv. 2, 4-5, NASB). The Lord is so good!

Honor the Lord and trust in His guidance. The discouraging voices around us lead us down into despair. They say that there’s no hope of eternity and bring destruction and shame. Lift your eyes to see the Lord’s glory, holiness, and love! Know that you’re important to Him, that He’s redeemed you, and that He’s called you to offer yourself to Him for your blessing! (Rom. 12:1-2). Take that next step to be around other believers for the purpose of ministering to them, and you’ll gain a sense of encouragement in God’s purposes for you unlike anything else!

DECLARE JESUS, KNOWING HE FORGIVES

Declare Jesus, knowing He forgives (1 Peter 4:6). The Apostle Peter wrote that “the gospel” was “preached” to the spiritually “dead” with the result that the spiritually dead would be made new “according to the will of God” (1 Peter 4:6, NASB). He wanted believers to know that people are made new through the message of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and that newness we have in Jesus is worth so much more than we know.

You have new life through Jesus and are called to encourage others in Jesus’ new life.

Your new life means that you have a new identity—as a treasured possession of Jesus your Savior. Your new life means you have a new point of reference—not based on your circumstances or your performance but based on your status as God’s child. Your new life means you have a new way of reaching out to others—not with jealously, envy, or lust but with eyes to see Jesus as Savior and a way of living for contentment and blessing.

Encourage someone to see Jesus as their Savior this week. The Apostle Paul wrote, “I endure all things for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus and with it eternal glory” (2 Tim. 2:10, NASB). The Apostle Paul’s words reveal that he cared about people enough to tell them about Jesus, to walk with them in the hardships of their lives, to persevere with them in those hardships, and to ensure that they work through their life-issues as they trust in the Lord and await eternity.

Take the time to meet with a family member or friend. Be with someone like the Apostle Paul was with the people in his life. Listen to their concerns. Point them to Jesus’ death for us on the cross and His resurrection that has conquered death. Encourage them to trust the Lord, to know His eternal love, and encourage them to be around other believers on a regular basis to find comfort and encouragement. Pray with others to encourage growth as you come to the Lord together!

MOVE TOWARD HOPE

Move toward hope! Resist bad desires, knowing Jesus’ kindness. Pursue good desires, knowing Jesus’ guidance. Declare Jesus, knowing He forgives. As we do these things, we’ll be encouraged to take the next step in our lives, have the assurance of the Lord’s forgiveness, and we’ll move toward blessings of great joy.

News Items:

- Special thanks to all who have helped clean on Sunday after our potluck, and to Fernando who swept the porch of our church!
- Special thanks to Troy for installing new faucets in 2 of the restrooms!
- Please keep Goya in your prayers regarding the passing of her husband, Raymon Paredes. Ray was a blessing to our church family and will be dearly missed. Details about a memorial service for Ray will be forthcoming.
- Potluck this Sunday – please feel free to bring a food item or drink
- Please check out our website at: https://fccbp.org/
- Canned food is available in our Food Pantry. Special thanks to Jessy as well as Cristina & Mon for providing the food!
- Our “Raise the Roof” fundraiser is ongoing, and we thank you so much for your support!

Here is the Calendar for First Congregational Church of Buena Park:

- Monday: Men’s Group on 8/31 at 5:30pm
- Wednesday: Praise Choir practice on 9/02 at 7:30pm
- Friday: Bible Study on 9/04 at 6:30pm
- Sunday: Please join us on Sunday, 9/07, for our Communion Service, Potluck, and our Board of Diaconate will meet after our Potluck. Thank you!
- Friday on 9/11: Prayer Events at 12pm and 6pm Prayer Events across the street at the Buena Park Police Fallen Officer Memorial. On 9/11, we will participate in the 6pm Prayer Event instead of have Bible Study.

Thank you so much for praying for the people of our church!

Richest Blessings!

John Peters, Pastor

WORKS CITED

“Scripture taken from the NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE-R-, Copyright-C- 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.” NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE. NASB Side-Column Reference Edition (Anaheim, CA: Foundation Publications, 1996).

Alfred Marshall, "The Interlinear Greek-English New Testament," Second Ed., forward by Prebendary J. B. Phillips (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1959, 1972 reprint).

W. E. Vine, "An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words with their Precise Meanings for English Readers," One-Volume Edition, with forwards by W. Graham Scroggie and F. F. Bruce (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1952).