“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 (NRSV)
Dictionaries usually define “conviction” as a fixed or strong belief—but conviction is much more than that. In addition to your beliefs, your convictions include your values, commitments, and motivations.
I like the definition of conviction I once heard from the great Bible teacher Howard Hendricks. He said, “A belief is something you will argue about. A conviction is something you will die for.”
Your convictions determine your conduct. They motivate you to take a stand and act according to your values.
When you first become a Christian, you often do things simply because Christians around you suggest or model them. You may pray, read the Bible, and attend church services because of their example.
This is fine for a new Christian; little children learn the same way. However, as you grow, you must eventually develop your own reasons for doing what you do. Those reasons become convictions.
Biblical convictions are essential for spiritual growth and maturity. Ironically, many people today have strong convictions about minor issues, like football or fashion. At the same time, they have weak convictions about major issues—like what is right and what is wrong.
Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen” (NRSV).
Developing strong, biblical convictions takes time and commitment. But it’s worth it. In the long run, they’ll help you live a consistent, faith-driven life.
Talk It Over
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Church Directory: We are updating our church directory. Information included will be a photo, address, and phone number. If that information has changed, please let us know! If you would like to be EXCLUDED, please email the church office.
Thanksgiving Lunch: Join us after service on Sunday, Nov. 21 for a fantastic lunch! Please sign up at the connection table in the lobby and let us know what you’ll be bringing and how many we can expect. Turkey will be provided! We will also begin decorating the church for the holidays that afternoon and would greatly appreciate your help!
Deck the Halls: If you are able to do so, please join us for decorating the church for the holiday season! Meet in the sanctuary at 2:00pm, Nov. 24.
Chrismon Service will be held Sunday, Nov. 28. If you would like to be part of that service, please see Richard Baisden.
Breakfast with Santa: We are partnering with OH Chamber of Commerce to host this event! Join us Satruday, Dec. 4th at 9am! Grab some cards to share with friends from the lobby!
Angel Tree: Grab a tag off of our tree set up in the lobby! We are supporting a few different families this year and we need your help! After shopping for your gift, please return it wrapped and with the tag attached so we know where to send it! Questions? Email the church office! Gifts need to be returned to the church office by December 19th!
Men's Lunch: Men meet for a time of food and fellowship every 1st Tuesday of the month at noon at Courtney's Diner (4066 N. Mt. Juliet Road, Mt. Juliet).
Baptism: If you are interested in Baptism, please see Pastor Mike.
Youth Bunch to Lunch will be every 2nd and 4th Sunday. Teens will meet after worship for lunch and fellowship.
WORKERS ARE NEEDED! Please let us know if you can help in the following areas...
You are invited to join us on the Church Center app! Church Center is a place to connect with small groups and church events, send messages to your group, update your profile, and more! Download from the App Store and connect today. If you have trouble with setting up or updating your profile (make sure your contact information is correct!), see Jenn Houchin.
Food Pantry: The Old Hickory Nazarene location is open on Wednesday from 5:00-7:00 PM. Volunteers and non-perishable donations are needed.
Coffee Shop: Uncommon Grounds is open every Monday-Saturday from 7:00 AM-2:00 PM. Invite a friend and use this great outreach to introduce the church to your friends.
BIBLE STUDIES
SUNDAYS
Debbie Woodard leads the Young Adult class in person and via ZOOM for anyone who would like to join. They meet Sunday mornings at 9am in the classroom next to the office.
Meeting ID: 868 1977 8952
Password: Bible101
Kenneth Ray & Gracie Smith lead the Friendship Class in person and via ZOOM for anyone who would like to join. They meet Sunday mornings at 9am in the classroom down the hall and to the right of the office.
Meeting ID: 846 6822 8046
Password: Bible101
Brice Rupert leads the teens class (grades 6-12), Kelsey Quillen leads the kids class (grades k-5), both in person at 9:00am. We have kids classes for all ages.
SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP begins at 10:00am in the sanctuary. The services will continue to be live streamed on Facebook and our website home page for those unable to be with us in the church building.
OH|KIDS CHURCH for K-5th grade meets in the kids room downstairs during the worship hour at 10:00am.
TUESDAYS
Coffee & Community Bible Study every other Tuesday at 9:30am in the Coffee Shop. Next meeting is on November 23.
WEDNESDAYS
YOUTH GROUP meets from 6-8pm. The first hour will be games and snacks and the second will be the Bible study.
Wednesday Night Bible Study with Debbie Woodard is on Facebook Live (from Debbie's page) at 6:30pm.
THURSDAYS
Richard leads prayer and devotional on Thursdays at 7:00 PM via ZOOM for anyone who would like to join.
Meeting ID: 894 2501 3143
Password: Prayer605
