First Congregational Church of Buena Park, 6633 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, CA (2026)

Our goal is to bless people in their lives as we lovingly proclaim the gospel of Jesus' death and resurrection; comfort and encourage each other; and purposefully fulfill our callings as we do what the Lord has for us in life! First Congregational Church of Buena Park, California was the first established church in Buena Park. It was the result of James A. Whitaker's dream for the new community, w

hich later became a "baby boomer" community and incorporated in 1953. Whitaker founded the town, acquiring 690 acres in 1885. In 1887 when he filed a map for the town, he used the name "Buena Park". A grassy area where Artesia and Beach Boulevards now meet had been named Plaza Buena (the "good place") by early Spanish-speaking settlers, so Whitaker apparently adopted the "Buena" name for his town. Within a short time, a little business district sprang up at Ninth Street and Grand Avenue around Whitaker's general store, near the railroad depot. Whitaker let a group of worshippers use a room above his Whitaker General Store for holding church services and then donated 100 square feet (and $3,000) at Tenth Street and Grand for a new church. More than $700 was donated by the Congregational Board of New York City. With this wonderful support, the First Congregational Church of Buena Park was officially established on September 5, 1888. The original church was constructed of wood. It was replaced by the present structure in 1929. Credit: Buena Park Chamber of Commerce

06/12/2026

This Lord’s Day, please join us at First Congregational Church of Buena Park this Sunday, 6/14, at 10am, to be built up in our Savior—Jesus Christ—to be equipped to go forward in service!

Here is our Order of Service:

Call to Worship and Invocation Prayer: Psalm 96:1-3

Hymn: “And Can It Be That I Should Gain,” 266

Offering and Offering Prayer

Hymn: “Give Thanks,” 660

Please greet your neighbor in Christ’s name

Announcements:

• Please follow us on social media & check out our website at https://fccbp.org/
• Attendance Book - Email address
• Church Information is Available
• Christian Baptism
• FCC Handbell Choir Rehearsal Today, 6/14
• “Bible Quiz – Bible Trivia” Phone App
• Bible Study this Friday
• Church Weddings
• Sign-up Sheet for Clean-up
• “Raise the Roof” fundraiser
• 6/18—Buena Park Ministerial Association Meeting at 10am
• 6/21—Father’s Day “Leaves of Remembrance” tradition
• 6/28—Wedding Ceremony for Xiuhua and Rita Duong – Congratulations!
• 6/28—Church Council Meeting
• 7/01—250th Anniversary Celebration of the US at Independence Hall: 6-9pm
• 7/04—Independence Day

News Update:

• Update on the stained-glass window issues

Prayer for High School Graduates: John and Haley

Special Music: “Just A Little Talk with Jesus,” with Bryant, Jared, Leonard, and John

Pastoral Prayer / The Lord’s Prayer

Hymn: “Wonderful Words of Life,” 496

Christian Education for Youth / Adults: “Seven Christian Teachings for You”

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 1:20-21; 1 Timothy 1:12-16; Hebrews 10:19-22

Message: Here are “Three Things to See About Jesus for Confidence in God” (1 Peter 1:20-21) for a sure and certain hope in your life.

• Jesus is eternal (1 Peter 1:20) and has demonstrated His power.
• Jesus conquered death (1 Peter 1:21a; 1 Tim. 1:12-16) and has our best interests in mind.
• Jesus gives us hope (1 Peter 1:21b; Heb. 10:19-22), and we can anticipate what’s good.

As we see Jesus’ glory and trust the Lord, we’ll have a settled sense of peace and increasing joy as we serve God in this life and look forward to being with Him in glory.

Benediction

Doxology / God bless you this week

06/08/2026

We’ve all heard stories of people who make too much of “mind over matter” or think they can control reality by their thoughts or words. We’re not like God. We can’t speak reality into existence. But our minds are an important part of us, and God calls us to rely on Him and love Him with our minds (Matt. 22:37). Here are “Three Attitudes to Have Because of Jesus’ Love” (1 Peter 1:13-19) to help us think correctly about our lives as we step forward into God’s blessing.

HAVE AN ATTITUDE OF PREPAREDNESS

Be prepared for your callings (1 Peter 1:13). The Apostle Peter encouraged his readers to “prepare” their “minds for action” in their service to the Lord with a clear view of Jesus and His “grace” that they would have forever (1 Peter 1:13, NASB). They were suffering persecution and hardship (1 Peter 1:6-7; McNab, 1129-1130), but Peter wanted their focus to be on doing what God had called them to do in view of Jesus’ kindness for all of eternity.

Be prepared in the way you think about your life and the gifts God has given you. You’re created in God’s image, and what you do is important. And the Lord has called you to “employ” the spiritual “gift” He’s given you as His steward (1 Peter 4:10, NASB). Because of Jesus’ grace and acceptance of us, we have every reason to have joy and confidence in serving Him and move toward the good that He has for us!

I’ve known my friend “Mike” for many years, and he’s always been thoughtful about preparation in his life. In school, Mike was always good at figuring out just what each class required. He made it his goal to determine just what he needed to do and what he didn’t need to do in order to get a good grade in a class. And then when he got his career, Mike figured out exactly what he had to do to in order to retire young. Mike had this in mind when he purchased his home. He had this in mind when he made investments. He prepared. And even though we can’t always predict how things will work out in life, last year, Mike retired. Some people don’t want to retire young. That’s great, too. But Mike prepared and planned, and God allowed it to work out for him.

We prepare for earthly things. But just as we plan for other events and opportunities in life, we should prepare and plan in our service to the Lord as His disciples. Jesus asked people if they wouldn’t “first sit down and calculate the cost” before they set out to “build a tower” because if they weren’t intentional in preparing to build, people would “ridicule” them when they couldn’t complete it (Luke 14:28-30, esp. vv. 28-29, NASB). A tower is a big undertaking! But your life is a big undertaking, too. And Jesus taught that we should think about our lives of service to Him as a big deal. And so we can ask ourselves, “How can I prepare myself to serve the Lord and accomplish what He has for me in life?”

Notice that the Apostle Peter emphasized our attitude—our internal life: He said that our “minds” should be prepared, that our souls should be “sober,” and that we should have “hope” settled on Jesus and His “grace” (1 Peter 1:13, NASB).

Take the time to write down positive things you can do to prepare for Christian service. Take daily opportunities to pray and read. Listen to AM 1280, which has really good Christian music, to get your mind going in the right direction. Download the Bible trivia app that I’ve been talking about. Be open to serving in the church as a deacon or deaconess. Be willing to attend a Bible study, take a more formal class, or attend a seminar or conference to learn and grow. Pray, “Lord, fit me for what You have for me, and make me willing to step out in service,” and God will bless you with a mind and heart that’s prepared for all He has for you.

HAVE AN ATTITUDE OF DIFFERENCE

Be different from this world (1 Peter 1:14-16). The Apostle Peter encouraged believers to “be holy” in imitation of God rather than “be conformed to” “former lusts” associated with “ignorance” (1 Peter 1:14-16, esp. vv. 14-15, NASB). The Lord had enlightened them, giving them new spiritual life, and He wanted them, and wants us, to live in that new life.

Enjoy the good things that Lord has for you through Jesus, including your relationships with other people. The Apostle Paul said that we’re “chosen” to have “a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness,” “patience,” to “[bear] with” others, forgive others, and to “love” others (Col. 3:12-14, NASB).

Those without knowledge of the Lord might see people as obstacles to what they want in life. But we should view people differently. The Lord didn’t put people in our lives to be an inconvenience to us. He didn’t bring them into our lives to be an obstacle to what’s good for us. He’s called us to desire good for people, to demonstrate His kindness toward people, and He promises to work in us and through us as we do so.

Maybe you haven’t been intentional about being around people. Or maybe there’s someone in your life who seems to be giving you a hard time. Set good boundaries with that person, but don’t hate that person in your heart. Want what’s best for that person. And with the people in your life, say a kind word. Pray a prayer of blessing. Demonstrate Jesus’ forgiving love. As the Apostle Paul said, we’re to “[bear] with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you” (Col. 3:13, NASB).

HAVE AN ATTITUDE OF REVERENCE

Be reverent in view of Jesus’ sacrifice (1 Peter 1:17-19). The Apostle Peter encouraged believers to see God as their judge and live “in fear,” not being afraid of being condemned, but being reverent before God because of Jesus as the “unblemished” “lamb” with “precious blood” that’s more valuable than “silver or gold” (1 Peter 1:17-19, NASB). Because Jesus forgives us, we’re reverent out of gratitude to Him.

Let’s have reverent gratitude to the Lord. We couldn’t find forgiveness by our good works. We couldn’t earn or purchase out salvation. But the Bible teaches that God has removed our “condemnation” by “sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin,” and by condemning our sin and triumphing over it in the resurrection, He forgives us! (Rom. 8:1-4, esp. vv. 1, 3, NASB). And because we’re forgiven, we have a reverent fear (Psalm 130:3-4).

See Jesus’ kindness to you. Thank God the Father for sending Him. And have a quiet reverence in your heart that brings joy. Pray, “God, thank You for sending Jesus for me. Thank You that I’m forgiven because He died and rose again for me. Grant me peace and joy today, with a deep sense of His acceptance in my soul. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

HAVE GOOD ATTITUDES FOR JESUS

Have good attitudes for Jesus! Have an attitude of preparedness, and be prepared for what God has for you. Have an attitude of difference, and be different from this world. Have an attitude of reverence, and be reverent in view of Jesus’ sacrifice. As we internalize these attitudes with faith in the Lord and step forward, we’ll enjoy Jesus’ love, enjoy doing what He’s called us to do, and bring glory to God.
____________________

Here is the Calendar for First Congregational Church of Buena Park:
- 6/12—Bible Study this Friday at 6:30pm
- 6/14—Please join us for 10:00am service this Lord’s Day! We will pray for our High School Graduates!
- 6/21 — Father’s Day with our “Leaves of Remembrance” tradition
- 6/28—Church Council Meeting
- 7/01—250th Anniversary Celebration of the US at Independence Hall: 6-9pm
- 7/04—Independence Day
- 8/01—Troy and Leah will renew their vows

News Updates:
- Please check out our Website at: https://fccbp.org/
- The stained-glass window company is in the process of repairing our small window in the chancel
- Our “Raise the Roof” fundraiser is ongoing. Thank you so much!

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

Richest Blessings!

John Peters, Pastor

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.” NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE. NASB Side-Column Reference Edition (Anaheim, CA: Foundation Publications, 1996).

06/04/2026

This Communion Sunday, please join us at First Congregational Church of Buena Park this Sunday, 6/07, at 10am, to receive this special testimony of Jesus’ love and lift our hearts in gratitude!

Here is our Order of Service:

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

Hymn: “I’d Rather Have Jesus,” 578

Offering and Offering Prayer

Hymn: “More Precious Thank Silver,” 218

Please greet your neighbor in Christ’s name

Announcements:

• Please follow us on social media & check out our website at https://fccbp.org/
• Attendance Book - Email address
• Church Information is Available
• Christian Baptism
• FCC Handbell Choir Rehearsal: Today 6/07, & 6/14
• “Bible Quiz – Bible Trivia” Phone App
• Bible Study this Friday
• Church Weddings
• Sign-up Sheet for Clean-up
• “Raise the Roof” fundraiser
• Board of Diaconate Meeting Today
• 6/21—Father’s Day “Leaves of Remembrance” tradition
• 7/01—250th Anniversary Celebration of the US at Independence Hall: 6-9pm
• 7/04—Independence Day

News Updates:
• Update on the stained-glass window issues

Reception of New Members: Church Covenant

“We believe in God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and trust in Jesus Christ for our forgiveness and are assured of eternal life! We’re thankful that He died for our sins, rose again, and is with us as our Savior, Lord, Shepherd, and Friend. We look to the Scriptures to know God’s heart, learn God’s ways, and to receive God’s encouragement to bless those around us. We will support our church’s mission to lovingly proclaim the gospel of Jesus’ death and resurrection to give hope and assurance of forgiveness for now and eternity! We will comfort and encourage each other on our life-journeys as we help each other in our Christian lives. We will purposefully fulfill our callings in life with the Lord’s help and seek to grow in Christian contentment and help others to do so as well. We will make it our goal to lovingly serve others, build them up, and to help them better see Jesus’ great love.”
Special Music: “Let Our Praise to You be as Incense,” with our Praise Choir

Pastoral Prayer / The Lord’s Prayer

Hymn: “Lamb of God,” 150

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 1:13-19; Luke 14:28-30; Romans 8:1-4; Colossians 3:12-14

Message: Here are “Three Attitudes to have because of Jesus’ Love” (1 Peter 1:13-19) to help us think correctly about our lives as we step forward into God’s blessing.

• Have an attitude of preparedness, and be prepared for what God has for you (1 Peter 1:13; Luke 14:28-30).
• Have an attitude of difference, and be different from this world (1 Peter 1:14-16; Col. 3:12-14).
• Have an attitude of reverence, and be reverent in view of Jesus’ sacrifice (1 Peter 1:17-19; Rom. 8:1-4).

As we internalize these attitudes with faith in the Lord and step forward, we’ll enjoy Jesus’ love, enjoy doing what He’s called us to do, and bring glory to God.

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

Benediction

Doxology / God bless you this week

06/03/2026

We get used to “change” in this world — not just in technology and industry — but in circumstances that deeply affect our lives. But it’s great to know that the Lord never changes and is full of blessing! Thomas Watson said centuries ago that “Christ is a treasury and storehouse of all spiritual riches” (Watson), and we can always treasure Him as our unchanging Savior! Here are “Three Reasons to Marvel at Jesus’ Love” from the Apostle Peter’s testimony about God’s plan of salvation (1 Peter 1:10-12) as we treasure Jesus and are blessed under His loving care.

SALVATION WAS PREDICTED FOR US

Salvation was predicted for us (1 Peter 1:10-11), and the Lord chose to suffer for us. The Apostle Peter said that the Old Testament prophets had Jesus’ Spirit “within them”; and as they inquired about the timing of Jesus’ coming, the Lord revealed that He would come later and would suffer for our salvation (1 Peter 1:10-11, NASB, including NASB marginal note on verse v. 11).

The Lord foretold Jesus’ sufferings for us. God promised Satan’s defeat after the Fall of man in the Garden. But in the process of Satan’s demise, the Lord said that Satan would “bruise” the Messiah “on the heel” (Gen. 3:14-15, esp. v. 15, NASB; cf. Gal. 3:15-16). And King David, speaking as a prophet, said that the Messiah would be “poured out,” that His “bones” would be “out of joint,” that He would be “surrounded” by “dogs,” and that His “hands and” “feet” would be “pierced” (Ps. 22:14-18, esp. vv. 14, 16, NASB; cf. Ps. 22:1; cf. Matt. 27:35, 46). And the Lord said through the prophet Zachariah that the people would “look on [Him] whom they have pierced” (Zach. 12:10, NASB; cf. John 19:37). Jesus—the Messiah—would suffer.

Have you ever gone to an event where everyone is seated, and then the officials and dignitaries are honored, where they walk in and everyone stands up as they take the best seats? Well, more than any earthly dignitary of high official — The Lord should have been honored when He came among us. But our sins required Him to suffer, and He came because He loved you. He knew He wouldn’t receive accolades and applause from men at that time, but He came here because you needed His forgiving care.

See that the Lord has been merciful and faithful to you. He was willing to suffer for you. He’s forgiven you through His death for you. He showed His victory for you in His resurrection. He’s promised you eternal life. Even though the road may be rough right now, would you see the Lord’s faithfulness? Pray, “Lord, thank You for being faithful to come and suffer for me. Please be with me just where You have me now, and help me to live for You.”

SALVATION WAS PROCURED FOR US

Salvation was procured for us (1 Peter 1:12) as the Lord took us as His own. The Old Testament prophets wouldn’t see God’s plan fulfilled in their lifetimes. Rather, the Apostle Peter said that they realized that salvation would be completed later and that people living after them would hear and receive the “gospel” message of Jesus’ death and resurrection (1 Peter 1:12, NASB). They would have their hearts touched with the message of Jesus.

To procure something means “to obtain something by particular care and effort” (Marriam-Webster, “Procure”). And the Lord procured your salvation. He demonstrated His care and exerted His power for your eternal well-being.

We sometimes view our lives from the perspective of this world without thinking about the Lord and our identity in Jesus. Dr. Bob Smart wrote, “we have believed a lie about who we each are. At vulnerable moments and opportune times, Satan shot his arrows into our inmost beings. These lies and condemning thoughts about our identities feels so true in the moment that we embrace them and unwittingly let them rule us” (Smart, 33).

But Jesus wants us to see our identity in Him. Let’s lift our eyes to Jesus and see that He’s completed our redemption when He died for us and rose again. Let’s understand that we’re His possessions, that we’re united to Him, and that we don’t have to believe the messages we sometimes tell ourselves. Let’s let His light shine into the darkness of our hearts and pray, “Jesus, thank You that I belong to You. Help me to reject the lies I tell myself. And help me to know that I’m safe in Your hands.”

SALVATION IS TREASURED BY THE ANGELS

Salvation is treasured by the angels (1 Peter 1:12), and we should marvel along with them. The Apostle Peter said that the “angels long to look” or “gain a clear glimpse” into the marvels of God’s salvation through Jesus (1 Peter 1:12, NASB, including NASB marginal note on v. 12).

Do you have a family heirloom? We tend to treasure items that have been passed down more than something we buy ourselves. Well, the angels treasure the Lord’s salvation as they look in from the outside. Jesus didn’t die for the angels. The angels weren’t redeemed as we are. But they see God’s love toward us and they marvel that God would forgive the sinful.

The angels treasure God’s salvation of you. Jesus said the angels rejoice over anyone who comes to Him. And He compared the angels’ joy to a woman’s joy upon finding a valuable “sliver [coin]” that she had lost and asking everyone around her to celebrate! (Luke 15:8-10, esp. v. 8, NASB, including NASB marginal note on v. 8).

The Lord has assigned an angel to you who marvels at Jesus. Jesus said that “little ones,” or children who believe in Him, have “angels” who frequently come before God the “Father” “in heaven” (Matt. 18:10, NASB). And this reminds us that we each have an angel assigned to us who cares about our wellbeing. This angel goes between you and God’s throne in heaven. And he marvels at God’s love for you.

Your angel—the one the Lord has provided to tend to your needs—treasures Jesus’ salvation of you. Would you treasure Jesus’ salvation of you too? Would you marvel at God’s love to you through Jesus? You belong to Jesus. Find your identity in Jesus and give Him first place in the way you think about yourself and your life.

And would you see yourself as Christ’s disciple? As Christ’s disciple, be intentional and read God’s Word each day. As Christ’s disciple, download the “Bible Quiz-Bible Trivia” app on your phone to stimulate your mind and to learn. As Christ’s disciple, be intentional to plan your Saturdays and Sundays well so you’re ready for worship. As Christ’s disciple, choose to sing with God’s people, to use the instrument God’s given you—your voice—to praise Him. As Christ’s disciple, see others at church as your church family, reconnecting to bring blessing into their lives.

MARVEL AT JESUS’ LOVE AND SALVATION

Marvel at Jesus’ love and salvation! Salvation was predicted for us, and the Lord chose to suffer for us. Salvation was procured for us as the Lord took us as His own. Salvation is treasured by the angels, and we should marvel along with them. As we see the Lord’s love and glory in salvation, we’ll treasure Him and live with joy and resolve under His loving care.
____________________
Here is the Calendar for First Congregational Church of Buena Park:

-6/01—Men’s Group at 5:30pm, “Grace of Discipline” in Disciplines of a Godly Man, by R. Kent Hughes
- 6/05—Bible Study this Friday at 6:30pm
- 6/07—Please join us for 10:00am service this Lord’s Day
- 6/21 — Father’s Day with our “Leaves of Remembrance” tradition
- 8/01—Troy and Leah will renew their vows

News Updates:
- Congratulations to Xiuhua and Rita for their recent marriage!
- Please check out our Website at: https://fccbp.org/
- The stained-glass window company is came out on Tuesday, 6/02, to address a broken window
- Our “Raise the Roof” fundraiser is ongoing. Thank you so much!

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).

Marriam-Webster Dictionary, “Procure” (https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/procure). Retrieved on 5/27/2026.

Thomas Watson, “Christ All in All,” from “Grace Gems!” (https://www.gracegems.org/Watson/christ_all_in_all.htm).

05/29/2026

Dear Church Family and Friends, This Lord’s Day is Trinity Sunday, where we marvel at God’s nature and majesty! Please join us at First Congregational Church of Buena Park this Sunday, 5/31, at 10am, to lift our hearts, minds, and voices to the Lord of glory!

Here is our Order of Service:

Call to Worship and Invocation Prayer: Psalm 29:1-2

Hymn: “Come, Thou Almighty King,” 4

Offering and Offering Prayer

Hymn: “Jesus, Name Above All Names,” 76

Please greet your neighbor in Christ’s name!

Announcements:

• Please follow us on social media & check out our website at https://fccbp.org/
• Attendance Book - Email address
• Church Information is Available
• Christian Baptism
• FCC Handbell Choir Rehearsal: 6/07 & 6/14
• “Bible Quiz – Bible Trivia” Phone App
• Bible Study this Friday
• Church Weddings
• Sign-up Sheet for Clean-up
• “Raise the Roof” fundraiser
• 6/01—Men’s Group at 5:30pm
• 6/21—Father’s Day “Leaves of Remembrance” tradition
• 7/01—250th Anniversary Celebration of the US at Independence Hall: 6-9pm

News Updates:

• Update on the Memorial Day Remembrance Event
• Update on the Buena Park Ministerial Association

Special Music: “What a Beautiful Name,” Praise Choir

Pastoral Prayer / The Lord’s Prayer

Hymn: “Wonderful Grace of Jesus,” 270

Marriage Tidbit: How does the “Dearly Beloved” say marriage was “beautified”?

Christian Education for Youth and Adults: “Seven Christian Teachings for You”

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 1:10-12; Psalm 22:14-18; Luke 15:8-10

Message: Here are “Three Reasons to Marvel at Jesus’ Love” from the Apostle Peter’s testimony about God’s plan of salvation (1 Peter 1:10-12) as we treasure Jesus and are blessed under His loving care.

• Salvation was predicted for us (1 Peter 1:10-11), and the Lord chose to suffer for us.
• Salvation was procured for us (1 Peter 1:12; Psalm 22:14-18) as the Lord took us as His own.
• Salvation is treasured by the angels (1 Peter 1:12; Luke 15:8-10), and we should marvel along with them.

As we see the Lord’s love and glory in salvation, we’ll treasure Him and live with joy and resolve under His loving care.

Benediction

Doxology / God bless you this week

05/25/2026

Happy Pentecost Sunday! Pentecost means “fiftieth,” and in the Old Testament Pentecost commemorated the blessings of harvesting grain in Israel; and since Jesus’ Ascension to heaven it also signifies the Holy Spirit’s outpouring upon believers in Jerusalem as they celebrated the harvest (Kauffman, 350).

Although we sometimes think that the Holy Spirit is only close to people who make earthshattering claims or to missionaries who live far away, this Pentecost Sunday reminds us that the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives today! As the color “red” signifies the Holy Spirit’s power and work among the early Galilean Christians at that time when visitors to Jerusalem heard them speaking in their own different languages (Acts 2:1-13; "Evangelical Association 2022-2023 Desk Calendar and Ministry Planner," 5/28/2023), we remember that the Lord cares about us today and wants us to know that He’s with us in power to help and to bless. Here are “Three Blessings of the Holy Spirit” from Jesus’ words about the Holy Spirit being sent here for us (John 14:16-21) to encourage us to have confidence in the Lord and in His work in our lives!

THE HOLY SPIRIT IS ALWAYS WITH US

The Holy Spirit is always with us (John 14:16-17). Jesus said that “the Father” would send us “another Helper” to always be present with us; and Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would be related to us in such a close way that He would “be in [us]” (John 14:16-17, NASB). Jesus taught that this Helper is like Jesus Himself: The phrase “another Helper” in Greek means a person similar to Jesus (Per Vine: “allos” “of the same sort” rather than “heteros,” which means “different” Vine, 200) who defends us, counsels us, advocates for us, comforts us, and consoles us (John 14:16, NASB; Vine, 200). The Lord wants you to know that He’s present with you for your wellbeing.

Would you know that the Holy Spirit is always with you? Jesus cares about you so much that He gave you the Holy Spirit to minister to you in your darkest times. The Holy Spirit brings you the Lord’s comfort in hardship — to know that everything’s going to be okay. He gives you encouragement in the way to go — to get past your feelings as you travel down a rocky road. He helps you in ways of which you aren’t always aware — knowing your disposition, experiences, and inner struggles. He moves you along, interceding “for [you] with groanings too deep for words” and works things out for your good and wellbeing (Rom. 8:26-28, esp. v. 26, NASB).

Let’s understand the Holy Spirit’s presence with us and pray, “Lord, I don’t understand everything going on in my life right now, but I thank You that You undersand. Grant me grace in this situation and trust in You. Please fill me with the Holy Spirit to grant me comfort from You, confidence in You, and the ability to move forward, in Jesus’ name.”

THE HOLY SPIRIT HELPS US UNDERSTAND OUR UNION WITH JESUS

The Holy Spirit helps us understand our union with Jesus (John 14:18-20) and the blessing of His teachings (John 14:24-26). Jesus said that rather than “leave” His followers “as orphans,” they would “see [Him],” understand His relationship with “[His] Father,” and that they and we would know that He’s “in [us]” through the Holy Spirit (John 14:18-20, NASB). The Holy Spirit turns our hearts and minds to Jesus and His presence with us.

Know that the Holy Spirit helps us see Jesus and His Father being with us and for us. The disciples saw Jesus after His resurrection. And the Holy Spirit gave you new life and helped you see Jesus as your Savior through faith. He helped you trust Jesus rather than your own works and be assured of eternal life. And as you came to value that Jesus died and rose again to free you from condemnation, the Holy Spirit helped you to live in joyful confidence in God.

Have Holy Spirit-inspired assurance today! The Apostle John wrote, “whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God” (1 John 5:1, NASB), which means that you can know that you belong to Jesus and have new life. Have a sense that the Lord dwells with you, loves you, and accepts you today despite all of your sins. Pray, “Jesus, thank you for dying for my sins and giving me eternal life. I rejoice in You as my Savior and pray my heart and mind would be filled with Your joy.”

The Holy Spirit also helps us internalize Jesus’ teachings (John 14:24-26). Jesus told His disciples that keeping “His words” demonstrates “love” for Him, and that “the Helper, the Holy Spirit” would “teach” them “all things” “and bring to” their “remembrance all that” He taught them (John 14:24-26, esp. vv. 24, 26, NASB). As we read the inspired record of Jesus’ life and teachings, the Holy Spirit helps us take Jesus’ teachings to heart, to treasure them, and He blesses us as we demonstrate them in and through our relationships.

THE HOLY SPIRIT HELPS US ENJOY SERVING JESUS

The Holy Spirit helps us enjoy serving Jesus (John 14:21). Jesus said that as His followers we have “[His] commandments,” that we show our love to Jesus by “keep[ing] them,” and He said that He would “disclose [Himself] to [us]” as we demonstrate our love to Him as our Savior (John 14:21, NASB). The Holy Spirit ignites love in our hearts for the Lord and blesses our relationships.

Enjoy serving Jesus in the Holy Spirit’s power. As you internalize His love and follow His commands, the Lord will give you joy and peace in your service and praise. But if we isolate ourselves and aren’t around other Christians, we’ll miss the opportunity to find that great blessing.

Make room for Jesus and Christian relationships in your routine. We can sometimes idolize the way we do things when the Lord would have us make room for His interests and desires. Let’s give our schedules to the Lord and make time for worshiping Him on the Lord’s Day. Let’s make time to be with other Christians and take the step to ask ourselves, “What fellow believer can I reach out to this week to encourage in the Christian life?”

This Pentecost season, as we focus on the Holy Spirit’s work through us, we’ll gain that joy of nurturing goodness in and through relationships. And we’ll truly be blessed!

BE BLESSED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT

Be blessed by the Holy Spirit in your life! Know that the Holy Spirit is always with you, helping you in the most difficult times. Know that the Holy Spirit helps us understand our union with Jesus and the blessing of His teachings. Know that the Holy Spirit helps you enjoy serving Jesus as you encourage other believers in your relationships. As you know these things and trust the Lord in response, you will gain confidence in the Lord and know great blessing and encouragement in your soul!
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Here is the Calendar for First Congregational Church of Buena Park:

- 5/29—Bible Study this Friday at 6:30pm
- 5/30—Please join us for 10:00am service this Lord’s Day—Trinity Sunday!
-6/01—Men’s Group at 5:30pm, “Grace of Discipline” in Disciplines of a Godly Man, by R. Kent Hughes
- 6/21 — Father’s Day with our “Leaves of Remembrance” tradition
- 8/01—Troy and Leah will renew their vows

News Updates:

- Please check out our Website at: https://fccbp.org/
- Pastor John was blessed to be involved in the Buena Park Memorial Day Remembrance Event
- Our “Raise the Roof” fundraiser is ongoing. Thank you so much!

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.”

Donald T. Kauffman, ed., "Baker’s Pocket Dictionary of Religious Terms" (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1967, 1975).

"Evangelical Association 2022-2023 Desk Calendar and Ministry Planner," by Evangelical Association of Reformed and Congregational Christian Churches, eds. Ron and Deanna Shifley (Brandon, SD: printed by Performance Press Inc, 2022).

W. E. Vine, "An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words," One-Volume Ed, Forwards from F. F. Bruce and W. Graham Scroggie (Thomas Nelson Publishers: Nashville, NY, 1952).

Andrew McNab, “The General Epistles of Peter” in "The New Bible Commentary," First Edition, edited by F. Davidson and others (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1953).

Address

6633 Beach Boulevard
Buena Park, CA
90621

Telephone

+17145221831

Website

http://www.mycongregationalchurch.net/

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