Introduction
It is our joy and privilege to welcome Dr. David Saxon as our guest speaker. He has served in the Bible Department of Maranatha Baptist University in Watertown, Wisconsin.
His message will be based on Mark 5:1-20 which records an encounter between Jesus and a man possessed and abused by demonic forces. The story points us to Jesus who alone wields power sufficient to overcome evil.
The hymns chosen for our service will emphasize several elements of the story and finish with a call to broadcast the fame of Jesus, just as the former demoniac was commanded to do.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship: Isaiah 55:6-9
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 52: Crown Him with Many Crowns
Note: This majestic anthem ascribes honor and glory to Christ, the Lamb upon his throne. This was the response required of Israel in Jesus’ day. They refused, but by God’s grace, we delight to “hail him as [our] matchless King thro’ all eternity.”
Hymn 333 How Sad Our State
Notes: This classic hymn reminds us of the true human condition. At one time, we were slaves to sin, our minds held captive by Satan (v. 1). But God took the initiative to do for us what we could never do for ourselves. His “voice of sov’reign grace [sounded] from the sacred Word” to call us to faith in Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 32:1-11
Note: David penned an expression of praise appropriate on the lips of all who know the Lord’s transforming forgiveness. In this service, it reminds us of the gracious deliverance Jesus granted to the demoniac in the sermon text: “Many are the sorrows of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds the one who trusts in the Lord” (v. 10).
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 249 O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus!
Notes: Just as Jesus intervened in the life of the hopeless and helpless possessed man, he has intervened for each of us, despite our “sad state.” This hymn is an exuberant expression of wonder and joy at this deep love Jesus lavishes on all who belong to him. It is never-ending, never changing, and never exhausted.
Message: Meeting with Christ
Mark 5:1-29
Dr. David Saxon
RESPONSE
Hymn Insert: For the Sake of His Name
Notes: In keeping with Jesus’ instruction to the transformed demoniac, this hymn calls us to take the message of Jesus to the world. It expresses our resolve to “love the unloved” and “urge them to flee to the Lamb who was slain” to secure their forgiveness. Trusting Jesus’ delivering power, we rely on him to use our message to exalt his Name.
Prayer Response: Mark Williams
Benediction: John Miles
Hymn: Doxology
Love offering