October 16, 2026

11Inheritance Through the Spirit. In him we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of his will, 12so that we might exist for the praise of his glory, we who first hoped in Christ. 13In him you also, who have heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and have believed in him, were sealed with the promised holy Spirit, 14which is the first installment of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s possession, to the praise of his glory. II. Unity of the Church in Christ - The Church as Christ’s Body.

1Psalm 33 Praise of God’s Power and Providence I - Rejoice, you righteous, in the LORD; praise from the upright is fitting. 2Give thanks to the LORD on the harp; on the ten-stringed lyre offer praise. 4For the LORD’s word is upright; all his works are trustworthy. 5He loves justice and right. The earth is full of the mercy of the LORD. 12Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people chosen as his inheritance. 13IV - From heaven the LORD looks down and observes the children of Adam,

22May your mercy, LORD, be upon us; as we put our hope in you.

1Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. He began to speak, first to his disciples, “Beware of the leaven—that is, the hypocrisy—of the Pharisees. Courage Under Persecution. 2“There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. 3Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops. 4I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more. 5I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one. 6Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. 7Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.