Brian Fisher, Blake Jennings

Grace Bible Church

“Celebration and Dedication”

Nehemiah 12:27-43

After completing the walls, God's people celebrated His faithfulness and power as they dedicated the walls. Exuberant joy filled their worship.

I. To Celebrate – God’s guidance and provision

We celebrate with joy because

1. God has guided us this far

2. God has provided for us (place, people, finances, spirit of unity)

II. To Dedicate – the work of our hands

We dedicate our lives entirely because:

1. We anticipate challenges ahead

▪ Opposition did not end in Nehemiah’s day

▪ Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts

2. We give witness to the power of God

III. To Commission – recognizing God’s guidance

While they were ministering to the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then, when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

—Acts 13:2-3

Renew our commitment to the following

1. Worship the Lord

I will consistently worship God in His Word, in prayer, and in fellowship with other believers.

2. Pray for new worshippers

I will consistently ask God to draw unchurched students and adults from our community to both campuses this Fall.

3. Invite others to worship with me

I will invite friends, neighbors, and/or coworkers to Grace Bible Church this Fall.