As we said a few hours ago, we were going to the Baptist Metropolitan Church for their 6:30 p.m. service. Well – we went and it was a great experience.
The service was very formal – started with a prayer by Pastor (Doctor) Peter Masters, followed by a hymn, then Psalm 46, another hymn (based on Psalm 46) then scripture – Acts 16:12-30, the announcements and offering, another hymn (Just as I am – all 7 verses) then the Bible message. This was based on the verse “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” This was the question asked by the Roman jailer of Paul and Silas at Philippi. What an interesting message when we had actually been to the very spot just a few days earlier! Pastor Peter Masters said it was more about an earthquake in the heart of the hardened jailer that brought about change. He finished by saying “It seems that for many of us it takes an earthquake in the heart to move us.” His final words were – “There are some here who let all this run over their head – your independence and your pride get in your way, and until you go on your knees before God and say I need Christ, not a lot will happen. May your heart ne open to see your need; may you see Jesus Christ and all He has done for you; may you be changed to a new depth.” Then his prayer - ”Lord, take away our foolish resistance.”
The congregation was 300 -350 , about 60% of whom were of African ethnicity. Heaps of young people, including students, and although the service was not what we would expect them to respond to, they just love it and hang on every word of the preaching. What a great Bible teacher he was. He has been the pastor of this church for over 30 years.
Following the service Stephen and Peter met with Pastor Masters in the vestry. He showed us paintings of Spurgeon and others who had been pastors of this church, then an original Spurgeon sermon and we also held Spurgeon’s preaching desk. Came away with books that he presented to us, plus a copy of the morning and night messages on CD.
A fantastic experience – particularly in view of Raeline and myself having been at Philippi a few days ago.
Now – a cuppa and off to bed. Hit the city of London tomorrow.
