August 30 Virtual Worship
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Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, August 30, 2026
Scripture Reading: John 14:15-17, 8:3-11
Sermon: Advocate
John 14: 15-17 (New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition)
15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. 17 This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him because he abides with you, and he will be in you.
John 8:3-11
3 Certain religious authorities brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and, making her stand before all of them, 4 they said to him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. 5 Now in the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” 6 They said this to test him, so that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. 7 When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 And once again he bent down and wrote on the ground. 9 When they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the elders, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. 10 Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” 11 She said, “No one, sir.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again.”
Key Idea of the Sermon
The many names and titles of the Divine throughout the Bible help to express the qualities and characteristics of God. Today’s teaching from John 14 promises that God will send Jesus’ Living Spirit as an Advocate. The story in John 8 demonstrates the Advocate at work. Our Advocate stands with us when we need it the most. Our Advocate provides protection, a fresh start, and a chance to make a change in keeping with the Divine intention of graceful transformation.
Questions for Reflection
• Reflect on a time when someone stepped up on your behalf as an advocate. How did that lead to a positive change?
• Why do you think it is so easy to fall into the role of judge rather than advocate? Who needs an advocate in our place and time?
• What might have Jesus been writing on the ground?
• How is Divine grace changing you?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Let the Season of Pentecost be a time of making disciples. Who in your circle of influence would benefit from knowing the grace and peace of Christ? Look for the opportunities Christ gives you to share why following the Way matters. Invite those who show an interest in discipleship to worship and serve with you.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
