As we re-enter our newly renovated sanctuary, we should reflect on both the blessing and the responsibility that this blessing presents. Before the priest, Ezra began his ministry in a newly constructed temple, he records lessons that will inspire us to follow in his tradition of faithful service.
Week 1: Moving with God, Ezra 1:1-4, Sunday, November 2, 2025
After decades of captivity, God moved the ruler of an empire to set His people free, so they could return to their Promised Land. This sovereign act of God should inspire us to respond to His call and return to a place of worship.
The Point: God provides a new sanctuary to welcome new families into His presence.
Next Steps: This week, invite someone to come with you on November 16 to Celebrate! Sunday
Sermon Notes & Discussion Guide
Week 2: Gathering as One, Ezra 3:1-3, Sunday, November 9, 2025
Communion Sunday
As a first step in their ancient rebuilding effort, God’s people completed an altar. For the first time in years, the people could offer the sacrifices that their God required. This opportunity to give back to God powerfully inspired their first act of renewed worship. Will our opportunity to worship here inspire a similar response?
The Point: As we worship together, we remind ourselves of both the work and the joy that unites us.
Next Steps: This week, invite someone to come with you on November 16 to Celebrate! Sunday.
Sermon Notes & Discussion Guide
Week 3: Celebrating New Beginnings, Ezra 3:10-13, Sunday, November 16, 2025
When the foundation of the new temple was completed, God’s people again gathered to worship with both joy and tears. Re-entering a Sanctuary can compel strong emotions, as we reflect on what God has done, is doing and will do.
The Point: God has granted us a new beginning. What will we do with this opportunity?
Next Steps: This week, let’s each find one more way to share Christ’s grace.
Sermon Notes & Discussion Guide
Week 4: Facing Opposition, Ezra 4:1-4, Sunday, November 23, 2025
Building programs are never completed without obstacles. Not everyone in Judah’s region was rejoining in their new Sanctuary. God intervened, however, to ensure that their worship continued. His actions will inspire us as we face our own versions of opposition.
The Point: Our faithfulness works because God is faithful.
Next Steps: When you are tempted to give up this week, decide instead to be faithful.
[[Thanksgiving Service, Thursday, November 27, 2025, 10 AM, in the Chapel – Testimonies in place of Sermon (No livestream)]]
Week 5: Sharing His Grace, Ezra 6:19-22, Sunday, November 30, 2025
For God’s ancient people, Passover is a powerful celebration of His saving grace, a reminder that He has delivered captives for many generations. As we enter our new Sanctuary, we continue to celebrate that same grace, which still saves us from our own forms of captivity.
The Point: Grace this powerful must be shared.
Next Steps: Let’s focus this week on forgiving more and judging less.
Sermon Notes & Discussion Guide
Roser Church is located near the Anna Maria City Pier at 512 Pine Avenue on beautiful Anna Maria Island. To watch LIVE or LATER go to our Roser YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@RoserChurch. For more information call the church office at 941-778-0414, email info@roserchurch.com, go to roserchurch.com or find us on Facebook @roserchurch.