August 20, 2026

News from Isabel Acheson for issue of Aug. 20, 2026

Somerset Bible Chapel 

The annual Vacation Bible School for ages 4-8 was held the evenings of Aug. 10 - 12 at the church. Attendance was reported as 7-10 each session. The lesson theme was “The Good Shepherd”. Thanks to the volunteer teachers and helpers. 

The Worship Service Sunday August 16 began with Erik Picard reading announcements. Emery and Katie DeRoo were the music team. Abe Klassen was usher. Rick Ross led the Prayer Focus and Rachel Picard read the Bible lesson from Matthew 7: 21-23.   

The songs for the service included “Come Now is the Time to Worship”, “Everlasting God”, “This Is Amazing Grace”, “Jesus Strong and Kind”, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” and closing with “His Mercy is More”. 

“I’m Glad You Asked” the summer sermon series continued with “How do we understand the interplay between faith and works?” Faith alone in Christ alone saves us. (Salvation). Pastor Jeff Peacock set the context for the initial reading. It comes near the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount found in Matthew chapters 5,6 and 7. This occurs very near the beginning of Jesus public ministry. His audience had come from regions all around. Their interest would make them a soft-hearted audience. In addition, his disciples were new and fresh. 

Jesus gives a specific warning (Matt. 7:15) about avoiding false teachers - wolves in sheep’s clothing. They will be recognized by their fruit. Jesus then gives a general warning. He notes that Saving Faith is evidenced by works of righteousness, showing obedience to God’s laws and ways. Godly behaviour is the necessary (inevitable) result of saving faith. 

Faith without works is dead. James 2:14-19 discusses the relationship. Saving faith is more than a profession. God gives the gift. New affections and new desires mark the Christian, the person with a changed heart. 

We have a human tendancy to try to earn our salvation. In Luke 15:11-32, the parable of the Prodigal Son, neither he nor the older brother had earned the father’s riches. In Philippians 2:12-13 Paul speaks of working hard to pursue obedience in the process of sanctifcation. 

The sermon closed with prayer, followed by the closing song and the benediction. 

The quarterly congregational meeting took place after lunch after the service. 

Monthly bulletins and previous reports are available on the website  www.somersetbiblechapel.com. 

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Church prayer family of the week: Jon athan Timmerman and family. Swan Lake area. Dominic graduated this spring. Malina, Julie and Kyle are school age. 

Mission of the month: Compassion Canada Sponsor child - Markenlove Mark living in Haiti. See bulletin for his latest letter.