FBCZ BLOG

Phase 1 - ReGathering

Dear Church Family,

Isaiah 40:28 declares, “Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.”

We serve a sovereign and strong God “who works all things according to the counsel of His will.” God’s church is filled with hope!

I am excited to announce that we will begin regathering for worship on June 7. Last week I went on Facebook Live and laid out for you our regathering plan. If you haven’t had the opportunity to watch the video, please go to the FBCZ Facebook page. It does give a number of important details.

This printed copy is a succinct summary of our plan. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call the church, which is now open again!

I trust and pray that you are finding strength in the Lord during these uncertain days. I think of 1 Peter 5:6-7, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” Reading this verse is like standing under a spiritual waterfall and allowing the love and care of God to wash over our souls. Follower of Jesus be strengthened today in the grace of the Lord Jesus!

Grace and peace,

Pastor Paul

Click here to read the "Worship Guidelines" for Phase 1 Regathering

Worship Guidelinespdf

Announcements

March 23 - Update

Dear Church Family,

Let me update you after the Governor’s “Shelter-at-Home” proclamation yesterday. I spoke with the Chief of Police, David McDavid, one of our members, and he considers our livestreaming “essential” and therefore a small team of people (no more than ten) will continue to come to the church and livestream our services Sunday mornings at 11:00am. We will also continue all our online efforts to disciple and shepherd you. Below, you will find a list of all the online resources to visit for updated information and services.

The Governor’s proclamation does require that we close the church office today, Monday, March 23. This is very important: You can still call the church office and a voice message will leave a contact number during urgent situations. It is our desire to shepherd you well during these days.

Also, Debbie Harrell will come to the church once a week and process all church gifts mailed to the church and make sure they are taken to the bank. Obviously, during this time you will either need to give online (http://www.fbcz.org/give) or mail your contribution to the church. Thank you again for your gracious support of the church’s ministry during these unprecedented days.

Let me encourage you to connect virtually and by phone with other believers. This past Sunday my wife, Libbie, did a Zoom with her Lifegroup and she said everybody was very encouraged to see one another. Let’s do our best to continue to love, encourage, and support one another.

Psalm 28:7-10, “The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him. The LORD is the strength of his people; he is the saving refuge of his anointed. Oh, save your people and bless your heritage! Be their shepherd and carry them forever.”

I remind all of us during these uncertain days; God is our strength and shield. God is seated on His throne and is accomplishing His purposes. We are a hope-filled people! Please know of my prayers and love for each one of you.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Paul

Facebook - @FirstZachary

Twitter - @FBCZachary

Instagram - @FirstZachary

YouTube - First Zachary

Website - www.fbcz.org

Sunday LiveStream - live.fbcz.org

Watch the Video from Pastor Paul -

Announcements

Day by Day Guide for Passion Week

Updated: Mar 11

Sunday –

Jesus triumphant entrance into Jerusalem

Monday –

Curses the fig tree on the way into the city

Matthew 21:18-22

Weeps over Jerusalem

Luke 19:41-44

Cleanses the temple for the second time in His ministry

Mark 11:15-19

Luke 19:45-48

Tuesday –

Finds the fig tree withered; teaches on faith

Mark 11:20-25

Wednesday – Silent Day

No record in the Gospels, but much activity as Jesus prepares for the Last Supper and as Judas and Sanhedrin prepare for Jesus’ arrest.

Thursday –

Peter and John sent to make preparation for Passover Meal

Luke 22:7-13

Lord’s Supper instituted

Matthew 26:26-29

Luke 22:14-20

To Garden of Gethsemane; Jesus’ agony

Matthew 26:36-46

Mark 14:32-42

Luke 22:39-46

Betrayal by Judas; arrest by Sanhedrin

Matthew 26:47-56

John 18:1-11

Friday –

The trials of Jesus Christ

First trial, before Annas
Second [and primary] trial before Sanhedrin; Jesus is condemned, misused
Third trial, immediately at dawn
Fourth trial, before Pilate
Fifth trial, before Herod
Sixth trail, before Pilate
Jesus is scourged
Jesus bears His cross to the gate on north of city and is crucified around 9am

Jesus’ Seven Saying from the Cross

“Father, forgive them…” Luke 23:34
“Today… with me in paradise” Luke 23:43
“Woman, behold your son…” John 19:26-27
“My God, my God…” Mark 15:34
“I thirst” John 19:28
“It is finished” John 19:30
“Into your hands…” Luke 23:46

The Death of the God-Man

About 3pm; veil torn, rocks rent; some graves opened and people rise [to mortality] and go into the city
Jesus’ side pierced
Passover lambs slain in temple
Jesus buried by sundown

Saturday –