Introduction
As Jesus chided the disciples for their failure to pray in Gethsemane, a crowd of armed men made their way into the garden. Judas, one of the Twelve, led the way and betrayed his Master with a kiss of friendship. This moment marked the beginning of what Jesus called the hour of “the power of darkness.” Truly, dark forces were at work that night. The evil one imagined that he was in control. But Jesus would soon clarify whose hand really wielded the power that night.
The songs chosen for this worship service remind us of the omnipotence of the One who underwent great pain for our poor sake. They invite us into Gethsemane to witness the Redeemer’s conflict. We see him disowned and insulted, thus we cry, “was ever grief like his?” Evil was at work; evil is still at work, but we know the outcome: Jesus Christ, the right man, wins the battle; his kingdom is forever.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship John 1:1-5
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn Insert I Greet Thee Who My Sure Redeemer Art
Worship through Giving
Scripture Reading Colossians 1:9-23
Hymn Insert Go to Dark Gethsemane
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 150 ‘Tis the Christ
Message The Hour of the Power of Darkness
Luke 22:39-46
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn 588 A Mighty Fortress is Our God
Prayer Response Mark Williams
Benediction John Miles