Introduction
We are pleased to have Rev. Joel Owen as our speaker for this worship service. He will deliver a message that is timely for our congregation: “Some Biblical Considerations Regarding Ministry Transitions.”
The hymns selected for this service focus on the local church, God’s center of activity in this age.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 25:8-10
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 220 Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken
Note: This hymn uses the imagery of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21) to describe the future perfection of the church in the presence of the Lord.
Worship through Giving
Hymn 221 The Church’s One Foundation
Note: Jesus Christ, the “church’s one Foundation.” We who embrace Christ in faith are part of the great church made up of “elect from ev’ry nation, yet one o’ver all the earth.” This hymn reminds us that the church throughout history suffers opposition from within and without (verses 3-4). Even so, we have this confidence: “the church will never perish.”
Scripture Reading 1 Peter 1:1-11
Note: Peter assumed that his readers were part of a local church, under the care of pastors (elders). In vv. 1-4, he gives public direction to the elders regarding their responsibilities. In vv. 5-7, he instructs the members of the church regarding their responsibilities. In vv. 8-9, he warned everyone about the seriousness of his instruction. Finally, he turned his readers’ gaze to the joyous outcome God has planned for them.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 225 The Living Stone
Note: On Jesus Christ “salvation rests secure.” On him alone we rest: “To him we look . . . other foundations we disown.” Built on this foundation, we, the church, are “a temple to Jehovah’s praise.” It is an amazing work, “View the vast building, see it rise!” And so we express our adoration for Jesus and declare that we “own no Savior but the ‘Living Stone.’”
Message: Some Biblical Considerations Regarding Ministry Transitions
2 Timothy 3:10
Rev. Joel Owen
RESPONSE
Hymn (Insert) I Love The Church
Note: Christ leads his church through his word, taught by “undershepherds” (1 Peter 5:1-3) charged to teach us how to understand and obey the word of God (Ephesians 4:11; Acts 20:28; Titus 2:1-2ff.; 2 Timothy 4:1-2). This takes place in community, which is why we love the church: to love Christ is to love the church. This hymn rejoices in these truths.
Prayer Response: Mike Towry
Benediction: John Miles