First Church of the Nazarene
B.L.E.S.S. - - How to Bless Your Neighbor - - Story
What if you could change the world without changing your daily routine? This B.L.E.S.S. series shares five simple, everyday ways to love your neighbors and share your faith authentically. As one participant shared, “If every Jesus follower used these biblical practices, we really could change the world!” Join us over the next few weeks as we explore practical steps to bless our community. Sundays at 10:30 at Gallipolis First Church of the Nazarene located at 1110 First Avenue in Gallipolis, Ohio.
Locations & Times
First Church of the Nazarene, Gallipolis
1110 1st Ave, Gallipolis, OH 45631, USA
Sunday 10:30 AM
Connection Card
I'm New / Looking for More Information You might be wondering, what's it really like at First Church? Simply stated, we're all about Jesus and what He has done in our life. You won't experience shame, guilt, or condemnation. We don't care how you dress or what candidate you voted for in the last election. Our church is made up of imperfect people with every kind of story imaginable. Do you want to know the best part? No matter what you've been through or what questions you might have about God and faith, our church is a place where you'll find the love, grace, and forgiveness Jesus gives to everyone. If you're new to First Church or seeking more information about an event, small group, or ministry, follow the link to fill out a short form and we'll reach out to you this week. NOTE: We value your privacy and would never spam you.
https://tinyurl.com/3hzybjzfGiving to First Church has never been easier
We thank you for being part of First Church of the Nazarene. Your gift makes ministry possible through our congregation. Our aim as a church is currently to give away no less than 15% of our income to others, to save 5% of our income preparing for the future, and living from 80% of our income to provide local ministry. Join us as work together for the future ministry through First Church of the Nazarene to Gallipolis, surrounding areas that include in Ohio and West Virginia, and throughout the world.
https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/6717651
TALK IT OVER
Questions for Group or Personal Reflection
1. What is your favorite story of all time? It could be a book, movie, or bedtime story from when you were a child.
2. Read John 3:1-17. What do you find most interesting about his encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus? How much of what Jesus said do you think Nicodemus understood?
3. When did you first come to understand the meaning of John 3:16? How would you convey the meaning and impact of these words if someone were to ask you about them?
4. Read John 9:1-11. How would you have felt if you were the man who was blind since birth and suddenly could see? How would you explain what happened? What would be your story?
5. What is your reaction to the simplicity of his story, “I was blind but now I see” (John 9:25)?
6. If someone were to casually ask you, “How did you come to know the love of God in Jesus?” how would you respond?
7. After experiencing this series of messages, when you hear the word “blessing,” what comes to mind? What will you remember? As a family, small group, or on your own, consider discussing or reflecting on the needs you see in your community or church. What are some small steps you could take together to bless others?
Daily Reading Guide & Reflections
1) Be still for a minute in God’s presence.
2) Record what God draws to your attention.
3) Each day, write your reflection in a journal: What is God drawing your attention to in the readings? Write down a word or phrase that stands out.
4) On Saturday, how have you seen God at work over this week? Write down in a journal.
Monday: Read John 9:24-25. There is Power in Your Story. Reflecting on the blind man’s response to the Pharisee “One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” His story was simple but powerful. Think about how sharing even a small part of what God has done in your life can impact others. Pray for courage to share your story in an authentic and humble way.
Tuesday: Read Romans 10:13-15. God designed us to communicate His love to others. Think about those who helped you find your way to God by sharing their faith. What would happen if no one had shared with you? Pray for those who need to hear God’s story through your life.
Wednesday: Read Colossians 3:17. Consider how your actions reflect Christ’s love. Your story isn’t just about what you say but how you live. Let your actions lay a foundation for your words, inviting others to see the goodness of Jesus in your life. Reflect on ways your actions can bless others this week.
Thursday: Read Matthew 10:19-20. When we feel unprepared to share our story, we can trust the Holy Spirit to guide us. Take time to pray, asking the Holy Spirit to help you share naturally and confidently. Remember, it’s not about having all the answers but about letting God’s Spirit speak through you.
Friday: Read 1 Peter 3:15. Start writing your story. Break it down into three parts: (1) Your life before Jesus, (2) How you came to know Jesus, and (3) Your life since meeting Jesus. Keep it brief and clear. As you write, ask God to show you what to share that will be meaningful for others.
Saturday: Read Ephesians 6:19-20. Pray for God to open doors and give you boldness to share your story with someone who needs it. Look for an opportunity today to share a part of your journey, trusting that God will work through your words to plant seeds of faith in someone’s heart.
Questions for Group or Personal Reflection
1. What is your favorite story of all time? It could be a book, movie, or bedtime story from when you were a child.
2. Read John 3:1-17. What do you find most interesting about his encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus? How much of what Jesus said do you think Nicodemus understood?
3. When did you first come to understand the meaning of John 3:16? How would you convey the meaning and impact of these words if someone were to ask you about them?
4. Read John 9:1-11. How would you have felt if you were the man who was blind since birth and suddenly could see? How would you explain what happened? What would be your story?
5. What is your reaction to the simplicity of his story, “I was blind but now I see” (John 9:25)?
6. If someone were to casually ask you, “How did you come to know the love of God in Jesus?” how would you respond?
7. After experiencing this series of messages, when you hear the word “blessing,” what comes to mind? What will you remember? As a family, small group, or on your own, consider discussing or reflecting on the needs you see in your community or church. What are some small steps you could take together to bless others?
Daily Reading Guide & Reflections
1) Be still for a minute in God’s presence.
2) Record what God draws to your attention.
3) Each day, write your reflection in a journal: What is God drawing your attention to in the readings? Write down a word or phrase that stands out.
4) On Saturday, how have you seen God at work over this week? Write down in a journal.
Monday: Read John 9:24-25. There is Power in Your Story. Reflecting on the blind man’s response to the Pharisee “One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” His story was simple but powerful. Think about how sharing even a small part of what God has done in your life can impact others. Pray for courage to share your story in an authentic and humble way.
Tuesday: Read Romans 10:13-15. God designed us to communicate His love to others. Think about those who helped you find your way to God by sharing their faith. What would happen if no one had shared with you? Pray for those who need to hear God’s story through your life.
Wednesday: Read Colossians 3:17. Consider how your actions reflect Christ’s love. Your story isn’t just about what you say but how you live. Let your actions lay a foundation for your words, inviting others to see the goodness of Jesus in your life. Reflect on ways your actions can bless others this week.
Thursday: Read Matthew 10:19-20. When we feel unprepared to share our story, we can trust the Holy Spirit to guide us. Take time to pray, asking the Holy Spirit to help you share naturally and confidently. Remember, it’s not about having all the answers but about letting God’s Spirit speak through you.
Friday: Read 1 Peter 3:15. Start writing your story. Break it down into three parts: (1) Your life before Jesus, (2) How you came to know Jesus, and (3) Your life since meeting Jesus. Keep it brief and clear. As you write, ask God to show you what to share that will be meaningful for others.
Saturday: Read Ephesians 6:19-20. Pray for God to open doors and give you boldness to share your story with someone who needs it. Look for an opportunity today to share a part of your journey, trusting that God will work through your words to plant seeds of faith in someone’s heart.
This Week's Bulletin for the week of Sunday, November 17
We Welcome You to Our Worship Service Today!
Out of all the places you could choose to worship, we are honored that you chose to worship with us. Please fill out a guest card so we can follow up to thank you for your visit.
Children are part of our regular morning worship service, and no nursery staff are scheduled. Please pick up a children/youth worship bulletin in the lobby and return crayons or colored pencils following the worship service.
November 17 - 23
Sun. 9:30 AM Small Groups
- Preschool/Kindergarten (Nursery)
- Grades 1-4 (Downstairs)
- Grades 5-12 (Office)
- Adults: Heavenbound (FLC)
- Adults: Faithful Followers (Chapel)
10:15 AM Prayer around the Altar
10:30 AM Worship
6:00 PM Youth Open Gym (Grds. 6-12)
Tues. 10:00 AM Prayer Force (Chapel)
Wed. 6:30 PM Choir Practice (Room 202)
6:30 PM Prayer & Praise (FLC)
Thurs. 10 AM – 12 PM Food Pantry
Fri. 3:30 PM Youth depart for MVNU
Sat. 8:00 PM Youth return from MVNU
Coming Up
December 7 Christmas Craft & Vendor Fair
December 8 Missionaries: Gary & Penney Sidle
December 11-17 Big Sandy Gallipolis Shop for a Cause
December 24 Christmas Eve Service at 6:30 PM
Please submit all church bulletin info to the church office by Tuesdays at 4 PM. (gallipolisfirstnaz@gmail.com)
Youth MVNU Explore Conference: MVNU Explore Conference on November 23-24 provides teens who feel a calling to Christian ministry with an intentional time of encouragement, fellowship, and training to help them discern their calling. Please pray for Brooklyn, Ava, and Kaylee as they take this next step in exploring a call to ministry along with chaperones Sandi Plantz and Nicole Whitwood.
Love, Peace, & Joy Singers: A family music group from Charleston, WV – will join us for worship next Sunday, November 24 at 10:30 AM. Invite someone to join you for this special day.
Thanksgiving Holiday: The church office will be closed the week of Thanksgiving.You may leave a message by phone at 740-446-1772, and someone will return your call. Small groups will We pray you have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Christmas Craft & Vendor Fair: The teens are hosting a craft fair on Saturday, December 7 from 10 AM – 2 PM. You can help by inviting vendors to participate, inviting friends to come shop, donating items to sell, or helping the day of the event. Sign up to help or pick up informational flyers on the welcome desk.
Missionaries: Gary & Penney Sidle recently returned to the U.S. following 22 years of service in Zambia, Africa. We are excited to hear from them on Sunday, December 8 during our morning worship service at 10:30 AM. You won’t want to miss this service!
Food Pantry Fundraiser: Shop for a Cause at Big Sandy in Gallipolis from December 11-17, and they will donate a portion of your purchase back to GFCNAZ’s Food Pantry. Please pick up a flyer on the welcome desk and tell others about this great opportunity.
Mailboxes in the Foyer: Our church mailboxes in the foyer are available for delivering Christmas cards to church friends. Just put your cards into the boxes and be sure to check often to see if you have mail. A list of names is available on the welcome desk.
Upward Basketball & Cheerleading: Children ages five through fifth grade are invited to participate in co-ed basketball or cheerleading for girls. The cost is $75/player; however, scholarship funds are available if cost is a concern. Register online now at https://play.upward.org/partner/1210084FirstChu or in-person at the FLC on December 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, and 12. Coaches are needed one evening a week for a 1 hour practice and on Saturday mornings for games.Please see Doug & Elaine Brown or Kevin & Monica Blazer for more information about sign-ups or coaching.
Out of all the places you could choose to worship, we are honored that you chose to worship with us. Please fill out a guest card so we can follow up to thank you for your visit.
Children are part of our regular morning worship service, and no nursery staff are scheduled. Please pick up a children/youth worship bulletin in the lobby and return crayons or colored pencils following the worship service.
November 17 - 23
Sun. 9:30 AM Small Groups
- Preschool/Kindergarten (Nursery)
- Grades 1-4 (Downstairs)
- Grades 5-12 (Office)
- Adults: Heavenbound (FLC)
- Adults: Faithful Followers (Chapel)
10:15 AM Prayer around the Altar
10:30 AM Worship
6:00 PM Youth Open Gym (Grds. 6-12)
Tues. 10:00 AM Prayer Force (Chapel)
Wed. 6:30 PM Choir Practice (Room 202)
6:30 PM Prayer & Praise (FLC)
Thurs. 10 AM – 12 PM Food Pantry
Fri. 3:30 PM Youth depart for MVNU
Sat. 8:00 PM Youth return from MVNU
Coming Up
December 7 Christmas Craft & Vendor Fair
December 8 Missionaries: Gary & Penney Sidle
December 11-17 Big Sandy Gallipolis Shop for a Cause
December 24 Christmas Eve Service at 6:30 PM
Please submit all church bulletin info to the church office by Tuesdays at 4 PM. (gallipolisfirstnaz@gmail.com)
Youth MVNU Explore Conference: MVNU Explore Conference on November 23-24 provides teens who feel a calling to Christian ministry with an intentional time of encouragement, fellowship, and training to help them discern their calling. Please pray for Brooklyn, Ava, and Kaylee as they take this next step in exploring a call to ministry along with chaperones Sandi Plantz and Nicole Whitwood.
Love, Peace, & Joy Singers: A family music group from Charleston, WV – will join us for worship next Sunday, November 24 at 10:30 AM. Invite someone to join you for this special day.
Thanksgiving Holiday: The church office will be closed the week of Thanksgiving.You may leave a message by phone at 740-446-1772, and someone will return your call. Small groups will We pray you have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Christmas Craft & Vendor Fair: The teens are hosting a craft fair on Saturday, December 7 from 10 AM – 2 PM. You can help by inviting vendors to participate, inviting friends to come shop, donating items to sell, or helping the day of the event. Sign up to help or pick up informational flyers on the welcome desk.
Missionaries: Gary & Penney Sidle recently returned to the U.S. following 22 years of service in Zambia, Africa. We are excited to hear from them on Sunday, December 8 during our morning worship service at 10:30 AM. You won’t want to miss this service!
Food Pantry Fundraiser: Shop for a Cause at Big Sandy in Gallipolis from December 11-17, and they will donate a portion of your purchase back to GFCNAZ’s Food Pantry. Please pick up a flyer on the welcome desk and tell others about this great opportunity.
Mailboxes in the Foyer: Our church mailboxes in the foyer are available for delivering Christmas cards to church friends. Just put your cards into the boxes and be sure to check often to see if you have mail. A list of names is available on the welcome desk.
Upward Basketball & Cheerleading: Children ages five through fifth grade are invited to participate in co-ed basketball or cheerleading for girls. The cost is $75/player; however, scholarship funds are available if cost is a concern. Register online now at https://play.upward.org/partner/1210084FirstChu or in-person at the FLC on December 1, 2, 5, 9, 10, and 12. Coaches are needed one evening a week for a 1 hour practice and on Saturday mornings for games.Please see Doug & Elaine Brown or Kevin & Monica Blazer for more information about sign-ups or coaching.
Journey through Advent with us! This season, we’re thrilled to share Changed in the Waiting, a gift from our church to you. This thoughtful devotional invites us to slow down and embrace the sacredness of waiting—just as God’s people awaited the coming of Christ. Through daily reflections beginning December 1, we’ll explore how God transforms us as we wait on Him. Pick up your copy today, and join us as we prepare our hearts together, discovering new meaning, hope, and growth in this Advent journey.
The Discipleship Place
The Discipleship Place includes the website, courses, and interactive version of the How to Study the Bible course provided by the Church of the Nazarene Discipleship International. Interactive Course: How to Study the Bible. People will find this new format engaging, fun, and interactive, redesigned with game elements and a visually appealing look. Get started now by clicking here. Discipleship and Mental Disorders. Key questions about mental disorders and the church community will be addressed, along with several “skills videos” to help those who may struggle with a mental disorder. Small Group Discipleship. These teaching videos feature Rev. Michael Downs providing a video series where key discipleship principles are discussed, followed by a demonstration of how these principles can be practiced in a small group setting.
https://discipleshipplace.org/
How to Be a Disciplemaker
Do you want help in making disciples of Jesus? Jesus’ intends that all His followers be discipled by His Word, Spirit, and Body. The following dialogue between Hal and Debbi Perkins is intended to guide you in the “what” of making disciples using the Discipled by Jesus (DBJ) model. But there is more. The videos listed below seek to clearly identify the “why” – not merely the what – behind each component of the DBJ model for making disciples of Jesus. Please note that the disciplemaker who only knows and does the “what” without comprehending the “why” will normally miss the key essentials of Jesus’ discipling us using the Discipled by Jesus process. We pray you will be helped to be a far more effective disciplemaker through the series of dialogues between Hal and Debbi below.
https://discipledbyjesus.org/how-to-be-a-disciplemaker/
Consider becoming a member and take our online membership class available in RightNow Media. Once completed, follow up with Pastor David to express your interest or discuss further your questions.
RightNow Media
We believe the mission of the church matters. And we’ve seen how God can change lives through video resources. That’s why we developed RightNow Media. Now, every person in your church can access over 25,000 biblically-based videos for small groups, families, students, leadership development, and much more. We hope to help you equip and disciple the people of your church.
Every person in your church can access biblically-based videos on topics like marriage, parenting, youth, recovery, leadership, finances and much more. Follow the link to begin digging deeper to develop Christlikeness using the Rightnow Media resources.
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/join/gallipolisnaz