Introduction
The morning after Jesus’ so-called “Triumphal Entry,” Jesus returned to the temple. He angrily expelled those who irreverently used the holy place for common and shameful deeds. Jesus’ opponents were all the more determined to do away with him, but they couldn’t find the right time.
The hymns in the service will declare the holy character of God of the temple. They also express the honor and submission due Jesus, the king—the antithesis of the reception he actually received.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship:
Invocation
Hymn 13 Rejoice, the Lord is King!
Notes: Charles Wesley’s exuberant hymn calls us to rejoice and give thanks because Christ is our King. This hymn is the antithesis of the reception Jesus received in Jerusalem in Luke 19. But we know that Jesus reigns and “his kingdom cannot fail.” He shall come, defeat his foes, and all our sins destroy. Thus we “rejoice in glorious hope!”
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 3: Holy, Holy, Holy
Note: Jesus cleared the temple in response to those who failed to respect the holy God who dwelled there. The Triune God possesses intrinsic perfection, and thus deserves worship and praise. “Only thou are holy, there is none beside thee.”
Scripture Reading Isaiah 56:1-12
Note: In the sermon text, Jesus quotes from two Old Testament passages, including Isaiah 56. The passage pronounces blessing on those who keep the Lord’s word and promises blessing on all people who worship the Lord in his temple. It also pronounces judgment on failed, ungodly leadership of the nation.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 462: Be Thou My Vision
Note: The “high King of heaven” is the subject of this hymn. It is a prayer that he will fill our vision, that we will give him his rightful place as “first in my heart.” Those whom Jesus expelled from the temple in the sermon text feigned religious devotion, but their affections lay elsewhere.
Message: Jesus in His Father’s House
Luke 19:45-48
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn 36 All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name
Notes: We conclude the service with a joy-filled anthem of praise that reminds us of the sovereign power of the Lord Jesus. It calls all people of God (angels, martyrs, believing Israel and Gentiles throughout the world) to unite in praise and crown his Lord of all! This was the response due him by the people who rejected him. By his grace, we are included in the multitude that will honor him throughout eternity.
Prayer Response: John Miles
Benediction: John Miles