AM Scripture Reading: Hebrews 10.21-25

This Morning’s Sermon:

Brent T. Willey

“You Will Be Missed”

(1 Samuel 20.18)

Introduction:

1. When David told Jonathan that he would not be attending the meal for the new moon, Jonathan replied, “Tomorrow is the new moon, and you will be missed, because your seat will be empty” (1 Sam. 20.18).
2. Allegorically, I wish to apply this to the all-to-often empty pews found at many of our worship services and Bible classes.

I. YOU WILL BE MISSED…

1. Because you are a member of God’s spiritual family.
   1. Who are the family members? (Matt. 10.47-50)
   2. Please don’t be a distant relative.
2. Because your involvement in Bible class & worship reinforce our efforts.
   1. Don’t forsake, but encourage others! (Heb. 10.24-25).
   2. “Forsaking” has become the habit of some.
3. Because an empty seat is very conspicuous.
   1. Ironically, David had to fabricate an excuse!
   2. “But they all alike began to make excuses” (Luke 14.18).

II. SEVEN REASONS TO BE AT EVERY SERVICE…

4. Because Jesus Would (Luke 4.16)
5. Because Jesus Will (Matt. 18.20; cf., 1 Cor. 1.9)
6. Because We All Need to Grow (2 Pet. 3.18; Acts 17.11)
7. Because of Our Example (Matt. 5.16)
8. Because of Our Children (Prov. 22.6; Eph. 6.4)
9. Because it Assists Our Elders & Preachers

(Heb. 13.17; Acts 20.27)

10. Because it Should be Our Priority (Matt. 6.33)

Conclusion: “Therefore let us, as many as are mature; have this mind…” (Phil. 3.15).