Introduction
The sermon text for this Lord’s Day (Luke 8:22-25) records a miracle through which Jesus displays his authority over the created order. The disciples are left trembling at the display of unimaginable power and asking “Who is this?!”
The hymns selected for the service celebrate Jesus’ absolute authority and the divine King and the peace that comes to those who trust him.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Welcome and Call to Worship
Prelude
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 63 Come, Thou Almighty King
Note: We begin with an anthem that invokes the presence of the Triune God to help us worship as we ought. It acknowledges his sovereign majesty and expresses our desire for Him to rule over us through the Word and by the Spirit.
Hymn 21 Fairest Lord Jesus
Note: This hymn sings the praises of Christ, “Ruler of all nature,” brighter than the angels, and “Lord of the nations.” Therefore, “glory and honor, praise, adoration” belong to him forever! Our sermon text calls us to place our faith in this Jesus.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 107:1-43
Note: Here is a Psalm that extols the LORD for his steadfast love. It is fitting to be read in connection with the sermon text:
He made the storm be still,
and the waves of the sea were hushed.
Then they were glad that the waters were quiet,
and he brought them to their desired haven.
Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love,
for his wondrous works to the children of man!
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 371 It is Well with My Soul
Note: Sea billows may roll, but those who trust Jesus know the One who made the waters and rules over them. Nothing in his world exists outside his control. Knowing Jesus brings true peace and enables us to sing, “Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, ‘It is well with my soul.’”
Message: Who is This?!
Luke 8:22-25
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn Insert Eternal Father, Strong to Save
Note: William Whiting composed this song in 1860, inspired by the words of Psalm 107. It soon became known as the Navy Hymn, used in both Britain and the United States. Later, verses were added to include other branches of the military. We will sing the verses that keep the author’s original theme and make connection with the sermon text. The second verse expresses our dependent trust placed in the “Savior, whose almighty word the winds and waves submissive heard.”
Prayer Response: Mark Buhr
Benediction: John Miles